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Disaster Psychological Phases
- briefly explain the five commonly accepted psychological phases of disaster responses. As a reminder, these include (1) the pre-disaster phase, (2) the hero phase, (3) the honeymoon phase, (4) the disillusionment phase, and (5) the reconstruction phase.
- After providing a review of the phases noted above, examine individual and community responses to a specific historical disaster event of your choice, provide a summary of the psychological phases of disaster response displayed in the example.
- Explain, with detail, how the selected phase(s) is appropriate to describe the observed behavior(s) from the example.
- Close your work with a discussion of the role of cultural competence during any of the phases of psychological disaster response and how such awareness might affect the actions of behavioral health professionals as psychological first aid (PFA) is implemented.
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Answer
Phases of Disaster Response
- Pre-Disaster Phase: This occurs before the disaster strikes, with varying levels of anticipation and fear depending on warning and preparation. Anxiety and uncertainty are common as people prepare and gather supplies.
- Hero Phase: In the immediate aftermath of the disaster, there is a strong sense of community support, and individuals often risk their safety to help others. Adrenaline and a shared sense of urgency drive collective rescue and survival efforts.
- Honeymoon Phase: Shortly after the disaster, a period of optimism sets in. Survivors experience hope, community unity, and assistance from volunteers and organizations. This often leads to a temporary sense of relief and solidarity.
- Disillusionment Phase: As time progresses, resources and support may begin to dwindle, and survivors face ongoing challenges. Emotional exhaustion, anger, and frustration are common as people feel isolated or abandoned by external aid.
- Reconstruction Phase: This final phase marks the longer-term recovery process, where survivors rebuild their lives and adapt to a “new normal.” Hope can slowly be restored as individuals work toward future stability, but feelings of loss may persist.
Example: Hurricane Katrina (2005)
The 2005 Hurricane Katrina disaster in the U.S. provides a clear example of these psychological phases in action:
- Pre-Disaster Phase: Prior to Katrina’s landfall, many residents of New Orleans experienced heightened anxiety due to warnings but also….