Abstract: Expectation discrepancy effect refers to a kind of interpersonal conflict resulting from a discrepancy of expectations between multiple sides within the same situation. Expectation discrepancy contains two components: dimension and degree. With its inevitability and imperceptibility, expectation discrepancy could be strengthened in groups. In disaster situations, it is likely to form a vicious cycle between expectation discrepancy and risk communication barriers. Factors such as the roles of individuals, perception of information, and existing knowledge would affect the dimension component, while factors such as psychological entitlement, and trust would affect the degree dimension. Both of the two dimensions lead to risk communication barriers. Breaking up mindsets could effectively reduce expectation discrepancy and start a positive cycle of risk communication, which is of great importance in disaster management.

Key words: expectation discrepancy, risk communication, mindset