Subjektive determinanter for lekfolks risikovurderinger

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In this article the literature concerning lay subjects' understanding of the risk concept is reviewed and discussed. Empirical findings suggest that the lay conception of risk is multidimensional and deviates from the normative (“statistical”) models of risk. Four different qualitative dimensions are identified in lay subjects' risk perception: A potency dimension, a novelty dimension, an exposure dimension, and an active-passive dimension. These dimensions contribute to explain lay subjects' perceptions of magnitude of risk, acceptability of risk, and their attitudes towards risk management. A lack of correspondance between predictors of perceived risk and subjectively perceived reasons for risk evaluations indicates that subjects may not be fully aware of the factors that motivate their risk perceptions.