Factors that Shape Environmental Perceptions: the Role of Health and Place

<p>Risk perception is the judgment people make about the characteristics and severity of a risk. Numerous theories and models exist which have identified the factors that influence risk perception. Among these factors, location, health status, and demographic characteristics are known to shape risk perception. To measure the influence of these factors on environmental perception, a series of surveys conducted in four Louisiana communities between 2004 and 2005 describe community perceptions about environmental issues and health status. The objective of the study was to characterize and compare environmental concerns relative to location, health status, and demographic characteristics. Results indicate that location has a strong influence in framing an individual’s concerns about environmental issues, particularly those living close to industry. Concern for general environmental and natural preservation issues were comparable among the communities indicating that concern for these issues is independent of residential location.</p>

Name thesis:degree_name

M.S.

Level thesis:degree_level

Thesis

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Planning and Urban Studies

Year

2012

Author dc:creator

• Langlois, Elizabeth

Contributors dc:contributor

• Renia Ehrenfeucht
• Michelle Thompson
• Lynn Dupont

• risk perception, environment, fenceline Louisiana
• Human Geography
• Place and Environment
• Urban Studies and Planning

Repository record dc:identifier

https://scholarworks.uno.edu/td/1595

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:scholarworks.uno.edu:td-2569