Prototype perception, risk perception, and the willingness to engage in risky behavior among scuba divers
by
Jennifer Howard
University of Southern Maine
Coauthors: Bill Thornton

This research examined the utility of two social-cognitive psychological processes in predicting scuba divers' willingness to undertake risky behavior in diving despite their intentions to behave to the contrary. A prototype/willingness model would predict increased willligness to engage in risky diving behavior as a function of relative favorable perceptions of the "typical" or prototypic diver who takes such risks. A risk perception model reflecting unrealistic optimism would predict increased willingness to take risks as a function of biased perceptions regarding one's personal vulnerability relative to the "typical" risk taker. Results indicated the two models to be independent predictors of willingness to engage in risky behavior among both recreational and commercial scuba divers.

Date received: September 10, 2003