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Comparative Optimism: Relative Risk Perception and Behavioral Response to Lead Exposure.
Bernabas Wolde1, Pankaj Lal2, Melissa Harclerode3
1Department of Earth and Environmental Studies, Montclair State University, 1 Normal Avenue, CL 418, Montclair, NJ, 07043, USA. woldeb@montclair.edu.
Environmental Management
|March 17, 2019
Summary
Comparative Optimism leads people to underestimate pollution risks, potentially increasing exposure. This study finds it
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Health Psychology
- Risk Perception
Background:
- Comparative Optimism (CO) influences individual risk appraisal and behavior.
- Underestimating pollution risks can lead to delayed or insufficient protective actions.
- Understanding CO's role in environmental health is crucial for public health interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the prevalence of Comparative Optimism regarding lead exposure in an urban population.
- To identify behavioral and socioeconomic predictors of Comparative Optimism for lead exposure.
- To explore the implications of Comparative Optimism for managing lead exposure risks.
Main Methods:
- Utilized survey data from an urban setting with a high lead poisoning burden.
- Assessed the presence and predictors of Comparative Optimism for lead exposure.
- Analyzed the relationship between Comparative Optimism and potential exposure-enhancing activities.
Main Results:
- A significant portion of the population exhibited Comparative Optimism concerning lead exposure.
- Ethnicity, income, and length of residence were identified as predictors of Comparative Optimism.
- Comparative Optimism was found to potentially correlate with elevated blood lead levels.
Conclusions:
- Comparative Optimism is prevalent for lead exposure, even in high-risk urban areas.
- Demographic and residential factors influence Comparative Optimism, highlighting vulnerable groups.
- Findings suggest Comparative Optimism may be a significant factor in elevated lead levels, necessitating targeted risk communication.
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