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Updated: Jun 13, 2026
13:04
Measuring the Subjective Value of Risky and Ambiguous Options using Experimental Economics and Functional MRI Methods
Published on: September 19, 2012
Effects of game-like interactive graphics on risk perceptions and decisions
Jessica S Ancker1, Elke U Weber2,3, Rita Kukafka1,4
1Department of Biomedical Informatics, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York (JSA, RK)
Summary
Interactive game-like graphics can help reduce numeracy gaps in understanding health risks. However, they did not significantly alter overall risk perception or intentions for preventive action.
Area of Science:
- Health Communication
- Risk Perception Research
- Human-Computer Interaction
Background:
- Patients often struggle to interpret statistical risk information.
- Computer game technology can offer experiential learning of event frequencies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of interactive graphics on risk perceptions and decision-making.
- To assess if game-like visualizations improve understanding of health risks.
Main Methods:
- An electronic questionnaire was administered to 165 participants.
- Health risks were visualized using static or interactive game-like graphics.
- Participants interacted with a 'search graphic' to find affected individuals.
Main Results:
- Interactive graphics did not significantly change overall risk estimates or intentions.
- Low-numeracy individuals showed reduced risk feelings with interactive graphics.
- Question order influenced intention to take preventive action (efficacy/severity first increased intention).
Conclusions:
- Game-like graphics can mitigate numeracy disparities in risk perception.
- Interactive visualizations may heighten concern for rare risks.
- Framing of questions significantly impacts stated intentions for preventive behaviors.
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