Risk perception refers to how individuals or groups understand and evaluate the potential dangers associated with certain activities or situations. This perception can be influenced by various factors, including personal experiences, cultural background, and media coverage. For example, people may perceive the risks of smoking differently based on their knowledge of health effects or the portrayal of smoking in movies. Different people may assess the same risk in varying ways. For instance, while some may view air travel as safe due to statistical data, others might feel anxious due to fear of flying. This discrepancy highlights the subjective nature of risk perception and its impact on decision-making.