Risk Perception in a Developing Country: The Case of Jordan

摘要: Purpose : Recognizing the importance of risk perception and poor understanding phenomenon in developing countries, this study characterizes Jordan. Design A mixed quantitative qualitative survey approach was adopted. Semi-structured interviews were used to identify risks relevant Jordanian society, then perceptions these examined using a questionnaire. Sampling stratified by province convenience sampling adopted within each stratum. The response rate 53.6 percent adequate for accurate useful results representative target population. questionnaire data analyzed parametric statistics including principal component analysis mean analysis. Findings cognitive map shows that Jordanians perceived warfare terrorist attack as most dreaded, catastrophic uncontrollable society. Refugee influx also high on dreaded dimension. Although Jordan generates no nuclear electricity, power loaded factor, confirming can be affected negative international events. Research Limitations/Implications proper interpretation requires an appreciation plasticity risk, are changed scientific knowledge, media coverage globalization issues. Future research should examine changes determine other possible variables influencing ratings at different times. While helped representativeness sample, applied might use probability instead. This gives analysts policymakers basis anticipating public responses improving communication information among laypeople decision-makers. Originality is one few develop investigate factors Jordan, volatile Middle East. Rather than surveying mainly students, it sample from Jordan’s 12 provinces.