How do Psychological Factors Influence Disaster Preparedness? Evidence from Disaster-Stricken Mountainous Areas of China.

Objectives: Disaster preparedness plays a vital role in mitigating risks and strengthening resilience of local communities in rural areas. This study examines the linkage between psychological factors and 4 kinds of disaster preparedness intentions and explores the challenges in translating intentions into actions.

Methods: This study utilized survey data from 325 households in Chongqing, China, that are threatened by geological disasters. We conducted empirical analysis using a regression model and carried out several robustness tests. The independent variables, psychological factors, are divided into risk appraisal, coping appraisal, and stakeholder appraisal. The dependent variable, disaster preparedness intentions, includes evacuation, disaster insurance, emergency supplies storage, and behaving eco-friendly.

Results: Multiple psychological factors have significant influence on disaster preparedness intentions, with varying impacts on different preparedness aspects. Social barriers-lack of capital, access, and triggers-hinder translating preparedness intentions into actions.

Conclusions: Our study integrates protection motivation theory and protective action decision model to understand psychological factors influencing disaster preparedness in rural China. We identify key factors significantly impact preparedness intentions and uncover barriers hindering the translation of intentions into actions. The findings underscore the importance of integrated approaches that bridge the gap between psychological awareness and the availability of resources, ultimately fostering a more resilient society in the face of disasters.