Story perspectives

Study Reveals Optimism Bias in Climate Risk Perception

1/10/2026

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Summary

Story summary

A meta-analysis of 83 studies involving 70,337 participants in 17 countries finds self–other differences in climate risk perceptions, with individuals rating their personal risk lower than others.
The discrepancy is stronger when comparing to general groups rather than individuals.
The gap is smaller in regions such as Asia than in Europe.
Cognitive biases like optimism bias may hinder actions, and future research should explore climate risks while referencing specific individuals.

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Story summary

A meta-analysis of 83 studies involving 70,337 participants in 17 countries finds self–other differences in climate risk perceptions, with individuals rating their personal risk lower than others.
The discrepancy is stronger when comparing to general groups rather than individuals.
The gap is smaller in regions such as Asia than in Europe.
Cognitive biases like optimism bias may hinder actions, and future research should explore climate risks while referencing specific individuals.