Long-term disaster effects in the perception of threats

For example, it has been shown that increased risk perceptions following the experience of natural disasters such as a tornado do not have a long-term effect on optimism and perceived vulnerability (Suls, Rose, Windschitl, & Smith, 2013). On the other hand, some man-made disasters such as nuclear accidents do lead to more stable pessimistic changes in the perception of threat (Dolinski, Gromski, & Zawisza, 1987).

Note: See source document for full reference.

Cultural Factors: Individual/collective memory

Hazards: Natural hazards, Man-made non-intentional hazards or emergency situations, Man-made intentional hazards

Disaster Phases: Prevention, Recovery

Types of Actors Concerned: Non-active citizens

Recommendations:

• Use local knowledge, collective memory and shared cultural values to improve disaster preparedness, response and recovery
• Develop a personal “culture of preparedness”
• Develop risk assessments methodologies, which consider cultural factors, the manner in which people cognitively process information and which employ a gender perspective