FOCUSING ON HURRICANE-ANDREW THROUGH THE EYES OF THE VICTIMS

Focus group techniques are especially useful hi the study of human res ponses to natural hazards, because of their ability to incorporate con text, their open-ended format, and their ability to derive qualitative insights. We convened two focus groups in South Dade County, Florida, to probe reactions to hurricane Andrew's devastation in August of 199 2. Based on focus group conversations, me were able to elucidate emerg ency behaviours as they relate to: first the diversity of attitudes an d perceptions characteristic of the pre-impact period; secondly tire e mergence of therapeutic and parasitic communities in the post-impact p eriod; and thirdly the coping innovations associated with the need to begin recovery. Such behavioural insights need to be incorporated in t he emergency planning process to assure preparedness and to facilitate the recovery operation.