Risk Realities: The Risk Perception Gap

Risk Realities: The Risk Perception Gap explores how danger, decision-making, and psychology intersect in high-stakes environments. This session moves beyond statistics to examine why we fear first and think later, how trust and culture shape what feels dangerous, and why the gap between facts and perception can be as hazardous as the risk itself. Using compelling stories, fireground examples, and current research, participants learn to identify hidden biases, reframe risk, and make more grounded decisions under pressure. Attendees will leave with sharper awareness, stronger judgment, and greater confidence to bridge the gap between instinct and reality.

Sean Henderson

Sean Henderson is a doctoral student in Fire and Emergency Management Administration at Oklahoma State University, where his research focuses on firefighter risk perception and discretionary decision-making under conditions of uncertainty. A mixed-methods social scientist, his work critically examines how cognitive and cultural factors shape frontline decisions in high-risk environments. He currently serves as a Training Officer with Clarington Emergency and Fire Services.