Disaster communication ecology in multiethnic communities: Understanding disaster coping and community resilience from a communication resource approach

Abstract

ABSTRACT The challenge for multiethnic communities to recover from disasters is well noted. Yet, research on which types of resources can help communities recuperate remains scarce. The current study explores how community-level communication resources—including interpersonal connections, local media storytelling, community-based organizations, and official emergency management communication—may function as a resource network for residents from diverse backgrounds to navigate the strenuous process of post-disaster recovery. Results based on a community survey confirm the positive link between disaster communication ecology and individuals’ disaster-coping outcomes. Findings further identify ethnicity-based divergence where certain communication resources play a more important role than others.