A community-based participatory research approach to assist vulnerable communities in developing a disaster preparedness plan to lessen the impact of natural disasters

Abstract

Background: In 2010, more than 200,000,000 people were negatively affected by natural disasters (CRED, 2009). That number is increasing as population densities continue to grow in coastal and other vulnerable areas (Hays et al., 2001). The top-down approach typically employs external evaluation and assessment teams and applies a universal preparedness plan and externally produced, high-value technology, which fails to take into consideration the specific needs, resources, and capacities of vulnerable communities (Wisner, 2004; Mercer, 2008; Burton, 1993). This dissertation study will examine the utilization of Community-based Participatory Research (CBPR) in interventions aimed at helping communities plan for and minimize the impact of natural disasters on their communities. Method: This dissertation study employed three different methods. A systematic literature review was conducted employing the PRISMA protocol. PhotoVoice, a qualitative research method, was utilized with a community in Hawaii to complete the vulnerability, capability, and gap analysis and to develop disaster reduction strategies. A one-group, pre-post-survey design was used to assess changes in participants self-rated perceptions following the development and implementation of the community disaster training and exercise program. Results: The literature review identified 14 CBPR interventional studies related to natural disasters that operationalized all nine CBPR principles to a degree. The principle of sustainability was least operationalized. Through PhotoVoice, the community identified 42 vulnerabilities and 50 capabilities, sorted into 17 themes. Thirteen gaps were then identified, which yielded 16 feasible strategies to reduce the community's vulnerabilities. The community helped develop and lead a training and exercise related to tsunami preparedness, as well as evaluation tools. A bootstrap pair sample analysis on the pre and post-survey demonstrated significant increases in the mean in all skill areas (p<.05). The majority of participants agreed that CBPR principles were reflected in the training and exercise program. In addition, the community was successful in developing a contextually appropriate tsunami evacuation plan. Conclusion: Applying CBPR principles to disaster preparedness research was effective at increasing community capacity, system development, and commitment to sustainability.