THE HUMAN FACTOR: RETHINKING RISK THROUGH BEHAVIOURAL INSIGHTS
The array of risks facing organisations today is both wide and significant. Many originate externally, while others stem from internal sources – particularly behavioural issues in the workplace that can severely disrupt, or even halt, operations.
To better understand the human and cultural dynamics that can lead to either success or failure, organisations are increasingly turning to behavioural science. This discipline goes beyond surface-level controls and metrics, offering leadership teams valuable insights to help transform organisational culture and strengthen integrity.
According to the Decision Lab, behavioural science is a multidisciplinary field that examines human behaviour by integrating insights from psychology, sociology, neuroscience, economics and other areas. Through systematic experimentation and observation, it focuses on understanding decision making by exploring the cognitive and social factors that influence behaviour.
Studying behaviour through this multidisciplinary lens is, as the Decision Lab notes, essential for identifying commonalities in how people process information. Behavioural scientists aim to uncover broad behavioural patterns to contextualise reasoning and predict future actions.
“In organisational contexts, behavioural science offers a critical lens through which risk behaviours can be understood and managed,” says Arthur Stuart Firkins, a behavioural scientist, educator and risk expert. “At its core, behavioural science interrogates the cognitive biases, social norms and environmental cues that shape human decision making – often in ways that deviate from rational models.
“Ultimately, the integration of behavioural science into risk management is not a peripheral concern; it is a strategic imperative,” he continues. “It enables organisations to move beyond reactive protocols and cultivate a proactive, psychologically attuned approach to safeguarding their people, assets and reputation.”
Oct-Dec 2025 Issue
Fraser Tennant