The influence of dispositional traits on Generation Z's intention to purchase sustainable clothing

Abstract

Purpose

Aim of this study is to examine how environmental concern and perceived consumer effectiveness (PCE) mediate the effect of consumer optimism and pessimism on Generation Z's intention to purchase sustainable clothes.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey was administered to 247 Gen Z students using a quantitative methodology. Structural equation modeling was used for hypothesis testing.

Findings

The examination of findings provides support for the idea that both optimism and pessimism have a direct impact on environmental concerns and perceived consumer effectiveness. Additionally, it reveals that environmental concerns and perceived consumer effectiveness play a positive role in influencing sustainable clothing purchases.

Originality/value

This study is one of the first marketing studies to explore the relationship between personality traits, environmental concerns and the intention to purchase sustainable clothing, providing insight into their relationship.

Research limitations/implications

Some methodological limitations impact the contributions of this cross-sectional investigation. It only tested a few variables predicting the intention to purchase sustainable clothing.

Practical implications

This research provides decision-makers, including marketers, with insights on leveraging dispositional traits to increase consumers' purchase intention of sustainable clothing.

Results

Environmental concerns and PCE have a positive effect on sustainable clothing purchases, which are influenced by both optimism and pessimism.

Citation

Antunes, S.S., Bairrada, C.M. and Garrido, S. (2024), "The influence of dispositional traits on Generation Z's intention to purchase sustainable clothing", Journal of Fashion Marketing and Management, Vol. 28 No. 5, pp. 911-928. https://doi.org/10.1108/JFMM-03-2023-0073