A Multi-Method, Multi-Hazard Approach to Explore theUniqueness of Terrorism Risk Perceptions and Worry

摘要

Developing ways to manage terrorism effectively requires a better understanding ofhow the public perceives this threat. In the present study, Canadians' perceptions ofterrorism risk and 4 other hazards were assessed using a word-association techniqueand rating scales reflecting key cognitive dimensions of risk (threat, uncertainty,control) and worry reactions. Data were collected in a national telephone survey.Canadians perceived terrorism as posing a lower threat, as more uncertain, and asless controllable, compared to the other hazards. Positive associations of perceivedthreat and of perceived uncertainty with worry about terrorism were observed.However, perceived control was unexpectedly positively associated with worryabout terrorism. The findings also suggest that additional social contextual factorsshould be examined in future research.