Facing technological risks: The importance of individual differences

Survey research on risk assessment has emphasized risk characteristics, such as uncontrollability of exposure or the catastrophic potential of hazards. This study extends past research by examining the importance of individual difference factors. Two hundred forty-nine respondents assessed the risk characteristics associated with various technologies. In addition, respondents rated perceived risk and personal worry and completed the Desirability of Control Scale and Ambiguity Intolerance Measure. Results indicated that perceived risk and worry were related to individual difference variables and to some risk characteristics as well as to interactions among these variables. Perceived risk and worry differentially predicted the desire for regulations and willingness to take action to decrease the risk associated with technological hazards. (C) 1997 Academic Press.