Factors Affecting The Attitudes of Children Toward
Wildlife and Conservation Issues

Kelly J. Sytsma
School of Science and Natural Recources
Lake Superior State University
Sault Ste Marie, MI 49783


October 15, 1996


Abstract: The human dirnesion of wildlife management is becoming increasinly
important. The Bear Referendum in Michigan on which voters will decide if baiting
and dogs should be allowed for hunting black bear is a good example. Stephen Kellert
conducted research involving public attitudes toward wildlife as early as the 1970s. The
increasing importance of this issue and my interest in working with children prompted
the present study. The objectives of this study were 1) to determine the students
attitudes toward selected wildlife and conservation issues and 2) to determine which
factors of their family background and personal experience may have affected these
attitudes. A survevy was constructed and administered on Mav 2O, 1996 at Ada Christian
School. The sample consisted of 93 middle school students grades 6 through 8. The
data was analyzed using SPSS. A Chi-square test was conducted to find significant
relationships between attitude questions and background questions. The test found that
opposition to sport hunting is related to area ( urban suburban rural farm ) and sex.
Opinion on shooting wolves for killing livestock is related to sex. Eighty three percent
feel the wolves should not be shot for killing livestock. Eighty seven percent feel wolf
numbers should not be lowered because wolves kill deer. This indicates a positive
attitude toward wolves. There is also support for sport hunting. Fifty five percent of the
students think the black bear is an endangered species. Students have been well educated
about wolves and hunting but there are still areas of misunderstanding.





KelIert S.R., Westervelt.  "Children's Attitudes, Knowledge and Behaviors
Toward Animals."  U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Washington D.C. l983.