Author(s)

T. M. Powell

Abstract

In recent years, large scale disasters have impacted an increasing proportion of the worldwide population. It is estimated that over 450 million people have been affected by natural disasters since 2010. Those who are affected experience a range of consequences from the loss of loved ones and displacement from their homes, to psychological difficulties such as post-traumatic stress, depression and anxiety. In response to these disasters, a number of international organizations have expanded response efforts from Low Income Countries (LICs) to large-scale emergency responses in High-Income Countries (HICs), such as Australia, Italy, Japan, Spain and the USA, and in Middle-Income Countries (MICs) such as the Philippines, Chile, Brazil, China and Libya. While these efforts have expanded, very little has been explored on the efficacy of psychosocial programs in HIC and MICs. This research sought to explore the current methods and evidence-base of psychosocial and protection programming in HICs and MICs in post disaster settings. Phone and Skype interviews with (N=20) key informants were conducted as well as online surveys with (N=21) respondents were completed to explore the research question. Poignant findings indicated: (1) programming widely varies from country to country based on existing capacity, civil society and governmental structure; (2) there is a dearth of rigorous research, evaluation and evidence supporting psychosocial and protection programs in most HIC and MIC country contexts; and (3) cultural adaptations and considerations are essential for effective program delivery. Findings from this research indicate that international guidelines must be established prior to a large scale disaster to appropriately respond to the needs of those affected.

Keywords

disaster, psychosocial, humanitarian, response