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Communication and interpretation of risk
1School of Psychology, University of Exeter, UK.
British Medical Bulletin
|June 15, 1999
Summary
Psychological research on risk highlights that while new genetics offer accurate disease risk assessment, individuals struggle with probability. Understanding subjective benefits, costs, and cultural factors is crucial for informed genetic risk decisions.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Genetics
- Decision Science
Background:
- The advancement of 'new genetics' allows for more precise assessment of individual disease and disorder risk.
- Significant uncertainty persists regarding how individuals perceive and act upon this genetic risk information.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize key themes from psychological research concerning risk perception and decision-making.
- To explore the complexities of evaluating and acting upon genetic risk information.
Main Methods:
- Review of psychological research on risk perception and decision-making under uncertainty.
- Analysis of factors influencing the evaluation of statistical and subjective risk information.
Main Results:
- Individuals often struggle with processing statistical probability, relying on heuristics instead.
- Subjective assessments of benefits, costs, personal values, cultural preferences, and ethical concerns significantly impact risk evaluation.
- Genetic risk assessment is influenced by a combination of objective probabilities and subjective interpretations.
Conclusions:
- Effective risk communication must go beyond imparting statistical data and aim to empower individuals and families in making decisions amidst uncertainty.
- Future risk communication strategies should integrate psychological insights to address subjective evaluations and facilitate informed choices regarding genetic risks.