The role of self-help groups in post-tsunami rehabilitation. (September 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Larson, Grant; Drolet, Julie; Samuel, Miriam
• Other Names: Vickers Tom guest-editor.
• Is Part Of: International social work. Volume 58:Number 5(2015:Sep.)
• Page Start: 732
• Page End: 742
• Publication Date: 2015-09
• Subjects: India -- rehabilitation -- self-help -- tsunami -- women; Social service -- Periodicals; Social problems -- Periodicals; Globalization -- Social aspects -- Periodicals; Community development -- Periodicals; 361
• DOI: 10.1177/0020872813477880
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0020-8728

Abstract

This article provides an analysis of the importance of self-help groups for women in post-tsunami rehabilitation efforts in Tamil Nadu, India. The finding is one of eight key themes identified in a larger study of the long-term social, economic and gender implications of post-tsunami rehabilitation work. While self-help groups were reported as having provided women with a measure of new social and economic opportunities, status and power, little evidence existed for a substantial reduction of poverty levels or a change in the prevailing patriarchal attitudes. The authors suggest that multiple long-term sustainable approaches to post-disaster reconstruction are needed to provide fundamental social and economic change for women.