Disaster and Its Impact on Society

What is a Disaster ?

A disaster is an occurence disrupting the normal condition of existence and causing a level of suffering that exceeds the capacity of

adjustment of the affected community.

(WHO, 2002)

Types of Disasters (1)

Types of Disasters (2)

Types of Disasters :

Natural Disasterout of man’s controlcaused by natural

forcesoften occurs without

warning.

Human Made Disaster

caused by recklessness, negligence, even the will to hurt others.

has more serious repercussions than natural disasters.

Social impact of disaster (1) :

Changes on family dynamics.

Physically destroys important social institutions within the community.

Obstructs the community’s ability to serve the public or conduct daily activities.

Places a burden on several groups in society.

The community could become overly dependent on external humanitarian aid.

Could alter the production pattern of the community.

The social impact of disaster (2) :

Increases drug abuse, alchohol abuse, crime, violence and divorce.

Breaks the communityunity within the community diminishes.

CRISIS:Impact of Disaster on Individual Level

A CRISIS occurs when an individual can not cope with the impact of disaster.

Emergency

Disasters on community level & crisis on individual level emergency on various stages.

Emergency A sudden unforeseen event (usually involving danger), which requires immediate action.

Psychological Impact of Disaster

Reactions that usually emerge hours to days after the disaster :

1. Numbness

2. Increased physical allert

3. Anxiety

4. Guilt

5. Conflict when receiving aid

6. Indecisive

7. Emotional and mental instability

A NORMAL reaction to an abnormal situation

Post Disaster Psychological Process

1. Shock Phase 2. Reactive Phase

Post Disaster Psychological Process

3. Adjustment Phase

4. Reorientation Phase