Risk Communication

Catalog description

Explores theories and models that aid in risk message design, channels of communication, and barriers (psychological, communicative, and structural) to effective risk communication. We use Plough and Krimsky’s (1987) definition of risk communication: “any public or private communication that informs individuals about the existence, nature, form, severity, or acceptability of risks…” and it can go “from any source to any recipient through any channel” (pp. 6-7). Considers how risk communication design, access, and effects can vary based on the audience’s race/ethnicity, age, education, socioeconomic status, geographic location, etc.