Risk Attitude is a disposition toward uncertainty, adopted explicitly or implicitly by individuals and groups, driven by perception, and evidenced by observable behavior.
It influences how risks are perceived, assessed, and responded to, shaping decisions and actions throughout the project or organizational context.
Key Characteristics
- Behaviorally Evident – Reflected in consistent actions and decisions
- Perception-Based – Influenced by values, experiences, and context
- Applies at All Levels – Relevant to individuals, teams, and organizations
- Impacts Risk Response – Affects how risk strategies are selected and implemented
Example Scenarios
- A project team consistently seeking aggressive solutions to maximize opportunity
- Stakeholders resisting change due to strong aversion to uncertainty
- An organization favoring conservative planning in high-visibility initiatives
Role in Risk Governance and Management
- Shapes Risk Culture – Contributes to overall organizational approach to risk
- Influences Strategy Selection – Drives preferences for avoidance, mitigation, or exploitation
- Supports Stakeholder Engagement – Helps tailor communication and response planning
- Aligns Behavior with Objectives – Ensures consistent risk handling across efforts
See also: Risk Appetite, Risk Tolerance, Risk Threshold, Risk Strategy, Governance.