[Losing your home after major flooding in Quebec: A look at how men adapt].

Abstract

Objective Preventive relocations are used to limit the risks of weather hazards, such as flooding. While these practices are likely to increase in the context of climate change, their effects on the health and well-being of those who experience them remain poorly documented in Quebec. This lack of information could contribute to inadequate support practices for individuals experiencing these relocations. This article presents the results of a study that examined the measures taken by male homeowners affected by the major floods of 2019 in Quebec to adapt to the various stages leading up to the demolition of their homes and their relocation. Method Thirteen men from 2 neighboring municipalities in the Chaudière-Appalaches region were interviewed in semi-structured interviews and a group interview to validate the results, nearly 3 years after the major floods of 2019 that affected several regions of Quebec. They were asked to share their experiences of demolishing their homes after the floods and were questioned about the strategies they used to cope with the changes. Results The participants' adaptive process proved to be dynamic, characterized by the deployment of various strategies throughout their experience, which can be divided into 4 phases: 1) the moment of the flood; 2) the administrative procedures that followed; 3) demolition of their homes; 4) relocation. Preparing for the arrival of the flood, evacuating their homes to ensure their safety and that of their loved ones, or, conversely, staying put to limit damage, changing their eating habits, and seeking physical assistance from those around them were the main strategies used during the flood. Seeking information from government and municipal authorities, obtaining administrative support from their life partner, and rumination were predominant during the administrative process, while avoidance, identifying a temporary home, and using optimistic and forward-looking thoughts were predominant during the demolition phase. To facilitate their relocation, participants postponed their retirement or used savings set aside for it, reused goods and materials from their flooded homes in their new living environment, and established relationships with their new neighbors, although some preferred to avoid contact. Behavioral responses were adopted more than intra-individual responses, the latter being cognitive and emotional. Psychological processes, such as assessing the costs and benefits of a decision or action, also influenced participants' adaptation. Conclusion This study contributes to a better understanding of the adaptation of men affected by demolition.