Micro · Individual Stub 1982

Risk Compensation and Risk Homeostasis

위험 보상 이론 (위험 항상성)

A behavioral psychology and economics theory suggesting that individuals adjust their behavior in response to perceived risk, becoming more cautious when risk is high and more reckless when safety measures increase.

Field Psychology · Economics
Level of analysis Micro · Individual
Paradigm Behaviorism Rational Choice
Key figures
Year 1982

Key Claims

Gerald Wilde’s Risk Homeostasis Theory demonstrates that human behavior adapts to technological safety interventions. When safety regulations (e.g., anti-lock brakes, seatbelts) lower perceived danger, actors compensate by taking greater operational risks, leaving aggregate accident rates largely constant.

Further Reading

  • Wilde, G. J. (1982). The theory of risk homeostasis: Implications for safety and health. Risk Analysis, 2(4), 209–225.

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