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. People may perceive risks differently even when faced with the same information, leading to varying responses to potential threats. Factors such as emotional responses, cognitive biases, and social influences can shape risk perception. For example, a person might overestimate the dangers of flying due to a recent news story about an airplane accident, while underestimating the risks of driving, despite statistics showing that car accidents are more common.