Fatalism as a mechanism when experiencing limited resources and support

A fatalistic viewpoint may be functional in stressful situations where resources and support are limited. Kagitcibasi (for literature reference see original source document) hypothesised that fatalist tendencies amongst impoverished Turks could “provide psychological relief and social solidarity” because they cannot rely on early warning systems and cannot afford to relocate, for example. Fatalism can be likened to the concept of “Karma” in Buddhism, whereby events are (pre)determined by individual actions. One study found that for survivors in Thailand and Sri Lanka, following the 2004 Tsunami, “this belief helped provide something of an explanation for the event and a protective effect against anxiety and depression”. Neria et al.(for literature reference see original source document) contend that this finding is not unique.

Note: See source document for full reference.

Cultural Factors: Access and use of infrastructure/services, Socio-economic status, Worldviews

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

Disaster Phases: Response, Recovery

Types of Actors Concerned: UN and other international organisations, European Civil Protection Mechanism, Healthcare and emergency services, Law enforcement agencies, Military, NGOs, Red Cross, Government, National civil protection body, Local authorities, Non-active citizens

Recommendations:

• Develop risk assessments methodologies, which consider cultural factors, the manner in which people cognitively process information and which employ a gender perspective