Behavioral Dimensions of Disaster

Catalog description

This course focuses on the sociological, psychological, and physiological human responses to natural and human-made disasters. Students will examine normal and abnormal psychological reactions, the recovery process, and principles of mental health care for victims and responders of disasters. Differences between natural and human-made disasters are examined and factors that mitigate post-traumatic effects are reviewed. Response of the public and individuals to disaster-related issues including: disaster warning, evacuations, relations, civil unrest, loss of family and property, and recovery activities are examined. Sociological and psychological aspects of Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) disasters are also considered. Students develop an awareness of the effect of human influence and behavior on disaster response and recovery.