Perceived Severity

Perceived severity refers to how serious or harmful an individual believes a health threat or condition to be. It influences their motivation to take action, such as seeking treatment or adopting preventive measures. If someone perceives a disease as highly severe, they are more likely to respond proactively. This perception is shaped by factors like personal experiences, information from trusted sources, and understanding of potential consequences. Recognizing perceived severity helps health professionals design effective communication strategies to encourage appropriate health behaviors and improve outcomes.