How Emergent and Change Theories Can Keep Us Grounded in the Polycrisis
Written by: Christine Homan
The polycrisis (where multiple crises occur simultaneously or in close succession, and interact to worsen each other) is overwhelming. Rising temperatures, biodiversity loss, social and political instability – it’s no surprise that many people feel powerless in the face of such immense challenges. But what if we’ve been thinking about systemic change and climate action in a way that contributes to our burnout, despair, and paralysis?
If we cling to an all-or-nothing mindset, we will burn out. If we believe only large-scale solutions matter, we will feel hopeless. But if we embrace the power of small, adaptive, collective actions, we can sustain our energy and remain engaged for the long haul.
Theories of Change and Emergence offer us a different perspective—one that emphasizes adaptability, interconnectedness, and collective transformation over time. By shifting how we think about change, we can approach systemic change and climate action in a way that is not only effective but also psychologically sustainable.
What Is Change Theory?
Change theory explores how transformation happens—whether at the individual, organizational, or societal level. A key framework in psychology and social science, change theory suggests that change is not a single event but a process (Prochaska & DiClemente, 1983).
In their Transtheoretical Model of Change, Prochaska and DiClemente describe change as happening in stages:
Precontemplation – Not yet aware or ready for change.
Contemplation – Acknowledging the issue but unsure how to act.
Preparation – Planning for change.
Action – Taking steps toward transformation.
Maintenance – Sustaining the change over time.
Understanding that change is a process—not an instant outcome—can help us stay engaged without feeling defeated when results don’t appear immediately.
What Is Emergent Theory?
Emergent theory comes from complexity science and systems thinking. When applied to cultural shifts, it describes how small, local actions lead to large-scale transformation over time. As Adrienne Maree Brown explains in Emergent Strategy: Shaping Change, Changing Worlds (2017), emergence is about recognizing patterns, adapting to uncertainty, and realizing the power and effect of creating ripples that shift entire systems over time.
Key principles of emergent theory include:
Small changes matter – A tiny shift in one part of the system can create large-scale impacts. Think “butterfly effect.”
Interconnection is key – No single person or action “fixes” systemic problems, but networks of people working together can create real change.
Decentralized leadership – Movements thrive when power is shared and people are empowered to act.
Adaptability over rigid plans – We can’t predict every future challenge, but we can remain flexible in how we respond.
Emergent theory reminds us that climate action is not about finding one big solution—it’s about many people making many changes in many places.
So how does this shift in thinking help us stay mentally and emotionally engaged AND psychologically healthy?
Reduces Overwhelm & Paralysis
Instead of feeling responsible for solving the climate crisis, we can focus on what’s within our reach. A great resource for this Ayana Elizabeth Johnson’s Climate Action Venn Diagram.
Change theory reminds us that transformation happens in stages, and emergent theory shows that small actions accumulate.
Shifts Focus from Perfection to Progress
Many people hesitate to take action because they feel their efforts won’t be perfect or enough.
Change theory reminds us that incremental progress is still progress, and emergent theory shows that small shifts lead to systemic transformation.
Encourages Collective Action Over Individual Burden
Climate anxiety often comes from feeling like it’s our personal duty to “fix” everything.
Emergent theory teaches that movements are strongest when built on collective effort. No one person carries the weight alone.
Helps Us Navigate Uncertainty
Climate change is unpredictable, and traditional top-down solutions often fail because they don’t adapt to new challenges.
Emergent strategies allow for flexibility, responsiveness, and resilience, keeping us engaged rather than disillusioned.
Both change theory and emergent theory teach us that transformation is already happening—it just doesn’t always look the way we expect. By staying present, connected, and flexible, we can be part of the slow, steady work of reshaping our world. And stay a bit more psychologically healthy while we are at it.
Final Thought:
What if, instead of asking “How can I fix the climate crisis?”, we asked, “How can I contribute to the ongoing change that is already unfolding?”
The difference in mindset might just be the key to supporting both climate action and our well-being.References
Brown, A. M. (2017). Emergent Strategy: Shaping Change, Changing Worlds. AK Press.
Prochaska, J. O., & DiClemente, C. C. (1983). Stages and processes of self-change of smoking: Toward an integrative model of change. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 51(3), 390.
Senge, P. M. (1990). The Fifth Discipline: The Art and Practice of the Learning Organization. Doubleday Business.
van der Kolk, B. (2014). The body keeps the score: Brain, mind, and body in the healing of trauma. Viking.
Whiting, K., & Park, H. (2023) This is why 'polycrisis' is a useful way of looking at the world right now. World Economic Forum; Retrieved from https://www.weforum.org/stories/2023/03/polycrisis-adam-tooze-historian-explains/