How risks are perceived is based on subjective beliefs (whether rational or irrational) and is driven by psychological and cultural factors, values, norms, and social context. Further, perceptions of risks and reactions to address these risks are shaped by motivational processes. This can lead to maladaptive responses addressing climate change. For instance, denial and failure to act transpire when a person perceives that a threat is uncontrollable. Exceptionalism or a belief that the risk would not happen to them (‘optimistic bias’) is another factor which influence climate change perceptions. Fatalism, or a belief that only God has the power over climate, also influence how individuals address climate change risks. While … Continue reading Aishath Shakeela