Learning Objective #1: Describe a theory explaining disaster response as experienced by Honduran survivors of Hurricane Mitch

Learning Objective #2: Apply this model to other disaster survivors to determine relevancy and appropriateness

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Following a disaster many people want to provide assistance to the survivors, however, they frequently do not know how to do this effectively. The purpose of this presentation is to discuss the Disaster Response Theory, which was developed from a research project done in Honduras following Hurricane Mitch. The purpose of the grounded theory research was to generate a substantive theory that explained how Hondurans thought about their survival of Hurricane Mitch and the help they received and still needed. Using grounded theory methods 16 survivors from a broad socioeconomic base were interviewed. The data from these audiotaped interviews were analyzed using constant comparative methods. Three years later additional data were collected, analyzed, and compared to the previous data, which strengthened the findings. The Disaster Response Theory emerged from the data and was grounded in it. According to this theory, following Hurricane Mitch the survivors experienced the problem of powerlessness. Their response to powerlessness was the process of Moving Forward depicted by the Disaster Response Theory. Moving Forward was a unique process, which was promoted by awareness and resourcefulness. Moving Forward as well as awareness and resourcefulness were experienced on both personal and global levels. The Disaster Response Theory is helpful for nurses and others providing assistance following a disaster. Greater recognition of the problem of powerlessness and the process of Moving Forward which is facilitated by awareness and resourcefulness can result in more effective relief efforts both immediately following and long after a disaster. Case studies involving survivors of the multiple hurricanes in Florida in 2004 will be used to demonstrate the relevance of this model.