Dynamic Risk Perception in Two Communities: Risk Events and Changes in Perceived Risk

This paper examines the relationship between perceived risk and hazard events in two communities in terms of the perception and acceptability of risk. One community experienced an acute risk event comprised of a fire at a chemical plant that resulted in a large-scale evacuation (an acute hazard). The other community was involved in a seven-year controversy over the siting of a hazardous waste incinerator (a chronic risk). While the results are broadly consistent with a learning model of perceived risk, the support is more limited than envisioned; hence, the static forces of risk perception are stronger than anticipated.