Assessing small non-zero perceptions of chance: The case of H1N1 (swine) flu risks

Details

Serval ID
serval:BIB_BED62E4F5D50
Type
Article: article from journal or magazin.
Collection
Publications
Institution
Title
Assessing small non-zero perceptions of chance: The case of H1N1 (swine) flu risks
Journal
Journal of Risk and Uncertainty
Author(s)
de Bruin W.B., Parker  A.M., Maurer J.
ISSN
0895-5646
Publication state
Published
Issued date
04/2011
Peer-reviewed
Oui
Volume
42
Number
2
Pages
145-59
Language
english
Notes
Publication type : Article
Abstract
Feelings of invulnerability, seen in judgments of 0% risk, can reflect misunderstandings of risk and risk behaviors, suggesting increased need for risk communication. However, judgments of 0% risk may be given by individuals who feel invulnerable, and by individuals who are rounding from small non-zero probabilities. We examined the effect of allowing participants to give more precise responses in the 0-1% range on the validity of reported probability judgments. Participants assessed probabilities for getting H1N1 influenza and dying from it conditional on infection, using a 0-100% visual linear scale. Those responding in the 0-1% range received a follow-up question with more options in that range. This two-step procedure reduced the use of 0% and increased the resolution of responses in the 0-1% range. Moreover, revised probability responses improved predictions of attitudes and self-reported behaviors. Hence, our two-step procedure allows for more precise and more valid measurement of perceived invulnerability. [Authors]
Keywords
Risk perceptions, Expectations, Visual linear scale, Magnifier scale, H1N1 flu, Decision-Making competence, Significant life events, Subjective probabilities, Individual-Differences, Adolescents, Validation, Survival, Scale
Web of science
Create date
15/08/2011 15:52
Last modification date
20/08/2019 16:33
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