Resilience has been an increasingly popular theme in disaster research due to its implications on both policy and practice in terms of reducing the negative consequences of disasters. From a social science perspective, research on the conceptualization and promotion of resilience of communities to disasters is considered highly valuable as individuals are an important actor in disaster risk management. Within this context, psychological insight into social aspects of resilience have a great potential to inform work in this field. Particularly, understanding the psychological processes involved in risk perception and preparedness of individuals and communities has helped to delineate how resilience can be promoted. This knowledge is especially important for disaster risk management as it also involves the pre-disaster phases mitigation and preparedness.

This short course aims to introduce early career scientists as well as various stakeholders (including civil society and policy makers) to the social aspects of disaster resilience with a focus on risk perception and preparedness. Particularly, psychosocial theories and/or models on risk perception and preparedness behaviors at the individual level will be explained to better understand how people perceive and respond to disasters. In order to facilitate the interest of the participants, a mini-exercise and discussion will be conducted at the beginning of the session. Upon introduction of the theories and/or models, the topic will be further elaborated by giving an overview of the research findings of various psychology studies. During the session, there will also be an opportunity to discuss how to incorporate the social aspects of disaster resilience and their implications for risk communication and disaster risk management activities.

Participation of early career scientists as well as those interested in the social aspects of disaster resilience is highly encouraged. The short course is open to everyone.

The short course is organized in cooperation with NhET (Natural hazard Early career scientists Team).