Much of the literature surrounding fisheries research involves
understanding the ecological and biological dynamics of fisheries.
Since the 1960s, many social scientists have developed studies
that aim to describe fisher characteristics and their actions, thereby
helping to understand the social (human) side of fisheries. The
maturing interdisciplinary field of so‐called human dimensions
research activities combines the natural sciences with the social
science fields of Economics, Psychology, Anthropology and
Sociology. The overarching goals of human dimensions research is
to understand human cognitions, behaviours and relationships
regarding fish, fishing and fisheries governance and management,
and the connections and feedbacks between the human and natural
components of fisheries systems. Examples of these relationships
include understanding illegal fishing behaviour, perceptions and
practise of catch and release in recreational fisheries and
perceptions of subsistence fishers on climate change.