Vulnerability as a Function of Individual and Group Resources in Cumulative Risk Assessment
2007

Understanding Vulnerability in Cumulative Risk Assessment

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Peter L. deFur, Gary W. Evans, Elaine A. Cohen Hubal, Amy D. Kyle, Rachel A. Morello-Frosch, David R. Williams

Hypothesis

How can vulnerability be effectively integrated into cumulative risk assessment frameworks?

Conclusion

The study proposes a model that incorporates psychosocial and social factors into cumulative risk assessment to better understand community vulnerability.

Supporting Evidence

  • Vulnerability has received little specific attention in risk assessment literature.
  • Current risk assessment methods fail to evaluate risks to communities.
  • Psychosocial conditions are a principal missing element in understanding vulnerability.

Takeaway

Some people and communities are more at risk from environmental dangers than others, and we need to consider their unique challenges when assessing these risks.

Methodology

The article discusses existing literature and proposes a conceptual framework for assessing vulnerability in cumulative risk situations.

Limitations

The article does not provide a comprehensive review of all literature on vulnerability and cumulative risk.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1289/ehp.9332

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