Choosing voluntary simplicity as a lifestyle

UNCG Author/Contributor (non-UNCG co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
Teris Nolen (Creator)
Institution
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG )
Web Site: http://library.uncg.edu/
Advisor
Mary Y. Morgan

Abstract: The purposes of the study were: (a) to investigate factors that lead individuals and families to a decision to adopt simpler lifestyles, (b) to determine what people mean by voluntary simplicity and how they practice a simpler lifestyle, and (c) to explore the role of group support in individual or family pursuit of voluntarily simpler living. A model of factors influencing voluntary simplicity was proposed as an explanation of the process. Components of the model included ethical issues, ecological concerns, and economic considerations. The model suggests adoption and practice of voluntary simplicity leads toward a more equitable global society—humane sustainable culture. The sample consisted of 48 individuals who had participated in Lifestyle Simplification Labs and were believed to be practicing a lifestyle simpler than mainstream society. Follow-up to the first mailed questionnaire (VSQ) netted 43 (90%) useable returns. Based on their composite score on voluntary simplicity behaviors, a sub-sample of 14 respondents was selected to receive the second questionnaire VSQ—2; eight (57%) were returned. Non-respondents to VSQ--2 seemed so engaged in life altering events they could not complete the second questionnaire.

Additional Information

Publication
Dissertation
Language: English
Date: 1994
Subjects
Simplicity
Conduct of life
Lifestyles

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