Targeting human fear of large carnivores — Many ideas but few known effects. (September 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Johansson, Maria; Ferreira, Inês A.; Støen, Ole-Gunnar; Frank, Jens; Flykt, Anders
• Is Part Of: Biological conservation. Volume 201(2016)
• Page Start: 261
• Page End: 269
• Publication Date: 2016-09
• Subjects: Large carnivores -- Human fear -- Literature review -- Intervention; Conservation of natural resources -- Periodicals; Nature conservation -- Periodicals; Ecology -- Periodicals; Environment -- Periodicals; Environmental Pollution -- Periodicals; Electronic journals; 333.9516
• DOI: 10.1016/j.biocon.2016.07.010
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0006-3207

Abstract

Abstract: This paper reviews the peer-reviewed scientific literature on interventions aimed to reduce human fear of large carnivores in human-large carnivore conflicts. Based on psychological theories, a wide definition of fear was adopted, including fear as an emotion, as a perception and as an attitude. Four major categories of interventions were identified: information and education, exposure to animal and habitat, collaboration and participation, and financial incentives. Each of these categories may have a potential to reduce fear responses. The scientific literature on the effect of interventions addressing human fear of large carnivores is scarce and partly contradictory, which makes it difficult for wildlife managers to rely on current research when designing appropriate interventions. Highlights: A review of interventions proposed to reduce human fear of large carnivores. Interventions include information, exposure, collaboration and financial incentives. Proven effects of the interventions are scarce and partly contradictory. Thorough evaluations based on relevant theory and real world contexts are needed.