Risk communication is a complex process that controls the flow of risk-related information within a society. Communication equilibrium theory provides a model that explains public satisfaction with this information flow. It provides a simplified strategy for risk-perception management that has widespread application. The basic explanatory principle is the "communication equilibrium." This principle states that for each individual who has an important need met by repeating the targeted risky behavior, the risk-related information must achieve a balance between the cost of giving up the behavior and stimulating the motivation of the individual to pay that cost. Communication equilibrium theory provides a framework that can be used to facilitate change in organizational concepts of the traumatic stress process as it bears up its personnel. The trigger for this process would be organizational recognition of the diversity and complexity of the factors that influence vulnerability to traumatic stress. Increased knowledge of the factors that contribute to this vulnerability and a recognition that several of these factors could be changed through organizational action could motivate constructive organizational change. Balance, or equilibrium, could be restored by the communication of risk-related information through policy and actions that contribute to best practice in traumatic stress risk management. 41 references