Nature experience promotes preference for and willingness to coexist with wild animals among urban and suburban residents in Malaysia

摘要: A decline in direct experience with nature can lead to disaffection of natural environments, wildlife, and public indifference towards biodiversity conservation. This study measured on affective attitude wildlife (i.e., preferences for willingness coexist 22 animal species) examined the relationships between these attitudes childhood experiences nature. face interview was carried out rapidly urbanizing Malaysia both urban suburban 357 adults (age > 20 years old). It found that Malaysian people liked several insects squirrels, but disliked mammals generally. Mediation analysis, controlling sociodemographic factors (gender, age ethnicity), showed positively associated preference wild animals (standardized path coefficient = 0.18; p < 0.001), had a strong correlation coexistence 0.61; p < 0.001) animals. Childhood experience, however, limited effects via preference, particularly unfavourable These results suggest scores, even though they were significantly correlated, different sides toward Therefore, promote conservation programs, we need strategies increase acceptance relevant environmental education communication, as well opportunities activities children.