Psychosocial resource loss as a mediator of the effects of flood exposure on psychological distress and physical symptoms

This study used the Conservation of Resources stress model to examine the r ole of psychosocial resource loss in the aftermath of Midwest flooding, Que stionnaires were distributed through churches and completed by 131 adults i n flood-affected commuities 6 weeks and 6 months after the flood's crest. F requent psychosocial losses included losses of routine, sense of control, s ense of optimism, accomplishing goals, and time with loved ones. Path analy sis revealed that psychosocial resource loss mediated the effects of flood exposure on both psychological distress and physical symptoms at 6 months p ostflood The findings suggest that interventions designed to prevent psycho social resource loss may reduce the long-term effects of disasters.