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Risk Communication, Risk Perception, and Social Vulnerability

Karen Joyce G. Cayamanda & Merlyne M. Paunlagui
Chapter 4
ISBN:

978-621-96514-7-9

Risk communication is more than a research framework. It has become a concept that is strongly marketed by specific interest groups, and used instrumentally to achieve particular ends (Plough & Krimsky, 1987). Thus, it is recognized that appropriate communication is an essential part of risk and crisis management and not only important for the response to risks and crisis (UNISDR, 2003). Wiles et al. (2019) defined risk communication as a core function that uses risk perception knowledge to tailor information about a risk for a specific audience to enhance understanding of risks and benefit, while stakeholder engagement is a broader function that involves building and sustaining relationships with involved and interested groups through providing opportunities for participation in decision-making processes. Moreover, effective risk communication and management is dependent on other factors to contextualize the most appropriate information (Comfort, 2007; Comfort et al., 1999). One significant factor to consider is the role of the structures, policies, and coordination in dealing with risk communication and how it affects risk reduction initiatives and implementation (Comfort & Kapucu, 2006; Comfort et al., 2004; Comfort et al., 2004; Comfort, 2007). Meanwhile, social scientists consider risk based on its perceptions is an invaluable concept in understanding and analyzing peoples’ behavior when confronted with hazards and disasters (Paek & Hove, 2017).

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