Factors associated with preparedness behavior for natural disasters and terrorism among low-income African Americans in Maryland

Studies show that marginalized groups, often the poor, women and minorities are hit the hardest in U. S. disasters. However, little in known about differences in disaster preparedness behavior between racial and ethnic groups during the preparedness stage. Although the literature is extensive in examining the impact and effects of disasters such as hurricanes, tornadoes, floods and earthquakes on it victims, relative few studies examine long-term planning activities for “all-hazards.” Although there is a body of literature on race, ethnicity, and disasters, the literature regarding low-income African Americans and disaster preparedness are generally in comparison to other ethnic groups. Thus, it may be useful to examine intragroup factors related to long-term planning and adaptive response behavior for disasters among low-income African Americans. Furthermore, this study is necessary to increase our knowledge and understanding of the disparities often seen in the aftermath of a disaster such as seen among victims of Hurricane Katrina. To address these gaps, and lack of knowledge and understanding, a quantitative study was conducted among a sample of low-income African Americans in five communities in Maryland. Using the person-relative-to-event theory (PrE), this study focuses on perceptions of preparedness, preparedness behaviors, and appraisal of resources used by the target population to augment their preparedness for a disaster. If successful, the results may be relevant to public health emergency planners and disaster researchers. This presentation will discuss the methods, results, and recommendations of the study.