Researcher(s)
- Daeun Kim, Sociology, University of Delaware
- Sara Muntz, Sociology, University of Delaware
Faculty Mentor(s)
- Tricia Wachtendorf, Sociology and Criminal Justice, University of Delaware
- Amanda Calder, Sociology, University of Delaware
Abstract
While disaster research has identified evidence-based findings about social behavior, it is often presented in a format inaccessible to those most likely to benefit, such as emergency managers. DRCit! – an educational initiative – makes disaster research more accessible to emergency managers and community members. Two modules were developed: 1) the unique challenges renters face from disasters, and 2) what factors influence households to take mitigation action. These topics directly connect to a National Science Foundation (NSF)-funded study to advance the understanding of the complex interactions among three intersecting goals in coastal communities – achieving equity, economic prosperity, and resilience to hurricane-related hazards – then developing tools to address these challenges. A comprehensive literature review consolidated findings on these two topics. The information was coded for recurring themes and synthesized. Four useful products were developed for each topic: A theme summary, a shorter topic summary, a bibliography for reference, and an easy-to-understand animated video. Findings include the following: rental unit recovery is often slow and deprioritized compared to homeowner units; affordable rental units often decline in availability after a disaster; even when units are available, they may not meet renter needs (e.g. allow pets, be accessible to those with disabilities); renters are mostly reliant on landlords to mitigate properties, leaving them dependent and potentially more vulnerable; residents balance cost, effort, and perceived benefits (e.g. efficacy, impact on home-values) in mitigation decision-making; people are more likely to take action if they understand the risks and know how to access and carry out mitigation programs; and financial incentives, such as rebates, grants and lower insurance premiums are among the strongest motivators and can make mitigation more affordable. The modules contain specific tips emergency managers can take. All the modules will be publicly available on the Disaster Research Center website and disseminated to communities participating in the NSF-funded study.