Objectives Based on RPA Framework, this study tried to identify factors affecting coping behaviors (prevention/improvement/policy participation) against particulate matter among Chinese. In addition, the study tested the possibility of extension of RPA Framework by adding anxiety as an emotional factor to the model. Methods A total of 443 online survey responses of Chinese in their 20s~50s were analyzed for the study. Results Results are as follows: First, four attitudinal groups classified by RPA Framework showed significant differences in coping behaviors against particulate matter. The responsive group was most actively engaged in coping behaviors; Second, three IVs(perceived risk/efficacy belief/anxiety) showed the main effects on three coping behaviors. In general, perceived risk showed a stronger effect on coping behaviors than efficacy belief. It means that when it comes to promoting coping behaviors among public, communication strategies to increase risk perception can be effective. Thirdly, when take account of anxiety as an IV with the two variables, anxiety showed the strongest main effect. It indicates that not only cognitive judgement also emotional response has a major role in coping behaviors in public risk situations. Conclusions This study proved the importance of emotional factor in the field of risk communication and explored the possibility of extension of RPA Framework. The results suggest that the strategy to arouse reasonable level of anxiety be needed in order to induce coping behaviors against particulate matter. The reason is that the appropriate level of anxiety could encourage people actively respond to particulate matter by increasing their vigilance. This study results are not confined to Chinese sample in that it rediscovers the importance of negative emotion (anxiety) in risk communication as well as suggests the possibilty of the extension of RPA Framework.