Developing a Conceptual Model for Identifying Determinants of Climate Change Adaptation

The conceptual model seems to be an integral part of academic research. Any conceptual model should be developed based on theoretical reasoning and practical relevance of the topic. However, for most instances, climate change adaptation studies do not ground on such rationale and relevance. A relatively lower R² value of such studies further indicates a lack of care for developing the conceptual modelling of the study. Thus, the current study attempted to propose a conceptual model for assessing the determinants of farmers’ adaptation to climate change in Bangladesh. A three-stage approach was used in constructing the model. First, relevant literatures were collected and analysed. Second, a list of factors compiled from the first stage (i.e., analysis of literature review) was refined using the Delphi method. Finally, the result of the Delphi method was cross-evaluated by Focus Group Discussion (FGD). Based on this, the present study proposes a multi-dimensional conceptual model that includes personal, economic, institutional and environmental determinants and might influence farmers’ adaptation decision to climate change. This finding is expected to be suitable, in particular, for Bangladesh and other developing countries in general. Most importantly, it is expected to guide future research in assessing the factors influencing farmers’ adaptation strategies to climate change effect and other similar events such as adopting agricultural technologies.