Citation

Wagner K. Risk Anal. 2007; 27(3): 671-682.

Affiliation

Technische Universitat Munchen, Chair of Forest and Environmental Policy, Am Hochanger 13, 85354 Freising, Germany.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2007, Society for Risk Analysis, Publisher John Wiley and Sons)

DOI

10.1111/j.1539-6924.2007.00916.x

PMID

17640215

Abstract

Perceptions of flash floods and landslides were analyzed in four communities of the Bavarian Alps using the mental model approach. Thirty-eight qualitative interviews, two telephone surveys with 600 respondents, and two onsite interviews (74/95 respondents) were conducted. Mental models concerning flash floods are much better developed than those for landslides because the key physical processes for flash floods are easier for the general public to recognize and understand. Mental models are influenced by the local conditions. People who have a better knowledge about the hazards are those who use many different sources to inform themselves, express fear about natural hazards, or have previous experience with hazards. Conclusions for how to improve information for the general public are discussed.

Language: en