Perception of risk is different across countries

Concerning the predictors of perceived risk, some of them differed across countries; for example, perceived social support (from family and spouse) was related to the perception of risk in the Ecuadorian sites, but not in Mexico (Jones et al., 2013). Given that this study was exploratory in nature (see source document for full reference), the exact explanation for observed cross-country differences was not provided. Nevertheless, the variety of findings on effects of contextual factors on risk perception can serve as an illustration of how subtle differences between different places are and how important it is to take them into account when planning programmes for people living in the areas affected by natural disasters.

Note: See source document for full reference.

Cultural Factors: Local knowledge, Customs/traditions/rituals

Hazards: Natural hazards

Disaster Phases: Prevention

Types of Actors Concerned: Non-active citizens

Recommendations:

• Develop risk assessments methodologies, which consider cultural factors, the manner in which people cognitively process information and which employ a gender perspective