Decision-Making Biases
Risk compensation
Taking more risk when feeling protected.
What Is Risk compensation?
Risk compensation is a thinking trap where taking more risk when feeling protected.
How It Tricks You
It can make one option feel obvious before the tradeoffs have been checked.
Real-World Example
A cyclist rides faster after putting on a helmet.
Seen Online As
- The easiest option is starting to feel like the best one.
- I am defending the choice before comparing alternatives.
- The risk I can feel is louder than the risk I should calculate.
What To Ask Instead
Has safety equipment changed my behavior?
Related Thinking Traps
Common Situations
Quick FAQ
What is Risk compensation?
Taking more risk when feeling protected.
What is an example of Risk compensation?
A cyclist rides faster after putting on a helmet.
How do I spot Risk compensation?
Has safety equipment changed my behavior?