The Role of Media and Communication Research in Risk Communication

Abstract

This paper explores the field of risk communication through the lens of media and communication studies, adopting a sociological framework. It investigates how the methods and thematic concerns typical of media and communication research are applied to the study of risk communication by analyzing the findings of a scoping review of international literature on the applied dimensions of this field. The definitions and theoretical frameworks of risk communication reveal a limited but focused incorporation of concepts and tools from media and communication research. The review highlights several areas that warrant further exploration, including the development of more audience-tailored communication strategies, a renewed attention to the organizational dimensions of risk communication, and a more systematic application of classical media theories – such as agenda-setting and audience studies – to the analysis of risk-related discourse.