First responder well-being following the 2011 Canterbury earthquake. Issue 3 (5th June 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Shepherd, Daniel; McBride, David; Lovelock, Kirsten
• Is Part Of: Disaster prevention and management. Volume 26:Issue 3(2017)
• Page Start: 286
• Page End: 297
• Publication Date: 2017-06-05
• Subjects: Resilience -- Posttraumatic stress disorder -- Christchurch earthquake -- Coping strategies; Emergency management -- Periodicals; Disaster relief -- Periodicals; 363.3405
• DOI: 10.1108/DPM-06-2016-0112
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0965-3562

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose: The role of first responders in mitigating the effects of earthquakes is vital. Unlike other disasters, earthquakes are not single events, and exposure to dangerous and trauma-inducing events may be ongoing. Understanding how first responders cope in the face of such conditions is important, for both their own well-being as well as the general public whom they serve. The paper aims to discuss these issues. Design/methodology/approach: Using questionnaires, this study measured posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), psychological resilience, and reactive coping styles in a sample of first responders active during the 2011 Canterbury earthquake in New Zealand. Findings: The prevalence of PTSD was similar to that reported in the literature. Psychological resilience, but not disaster exposure, was found to be associated with PTSD. Maladaptive coping strategies best predicted resiliency, but there were significant gender differences. Originality/value: These findings can inform those managing first responder disaster workers through the consideration of preventive and treatment interventions.