Date of Award
Spring 5-4-2026
Document Type
Thesis
Publication Status
Version of Record
Submission Date
May 2026
Department
Environmental Sciences
College Granting Degree
Charles E. Schmidt College of Science
Department Granting Degree
Environmental Sciences Program
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Thesis/Dissertation Advisor [Chair]
Colin Polsky
Abstract
As climate and weather hazards intensify, Southeast Florida communities face mounting pressures that increasingly influence patterns of migration and immobility. This research examines evidence of climate migration in high flood-risk neighborhoods in Fort Lauderdale by exploring why some populations choose to stay, while others leave, in the context of a changing climate. Using focus group discussions, I investigate how climate and non-climate related factors shape mobility outcomes among residents in the city. Migration outcomes were primarily influenced by negative climate and weather hazard experiences, discontent with existing public in-situ adaptations, and non-climate disamenities, which eroded participants’ sense of place. Voluntary immobility was enforced by a strong sense of place and perceived effectiveness of existing in-situ adaptation infrastructure. Our findings highlight the role of socio-psychological, climate, and non-climate related factors in mobility decisions. These insights can help guide and inform policies and initiatives to improve resilience in impacted communities.
Recommended Citation
Perry, Arielle, "SHOULD I STAY OR SHOULD I GO?: EVALUATING THE ROLE OF CLIMATE AND WEATHER STRESSORS ON MOVING DECISIONS IN SOUTHEAST FLORIDA" (2026). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 331.
https://digitalcommons.fau.edu/etd_general/331