Developing scales for disaster risk perception and coping: a psychosocial perspective

This study aims to develop valid and reliable measurement tools to assess disaster risk perception and coping strategies, thereby contributing to the design of effective disaster management policies. Two original scales were utilised: the Disaster Risk Perception and Coping Scale (DRPCS) and the Disaster Risk Management and Psychosocial Outcomes Scale (DRMPOS). Data were collected via an online survey from 505 participants across diverse demographic and geographic backgrounds in Türkiye. Explanatory and confirmatory factor analyses validated the structural integrity of both scales. The DRPCS revealed three factors—Disaster Awareness and Anxiety (α = 0.957), Fatalistic Beliefs (α = 0.729), and Preparedness and Coping (α = 0.902) —while the DRMPOS identified two dimensions—Disaster Experience and Psychosocial Impacts (α = 0.938), and Pre- and Post-Disaster Actions (α = 0.894). Fit indices indicated acceptable model fit (DRPCS: χ²/df = 2.770, CFI = 0.924, RMSEA = 0.0786; DRMPOS: χ²/df = 3.525, CFI = 0.960, TLI = 0.979, RMSEA = 0.101). Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) revealed that the DRMPOS significantly predicted subscales of the DRPCS. Notably, disaster experience and psychosocial impacts had a positive influence on awareness and anxiety (β = 0.525), while fatalistic beliefs negatively affected preparedness. Pre- and post-disaster actions had a moderate effect on proactive coping strategies. These findings underscore the pivotal role of psychosocial factors in disaster preparedness. They indicate that support mechanisms and targeted interventions are crucial for enhancing both individual and community-level resilience. The study highlights the importance of integrating cognitive, emotional, and behavioral dimensions into disaster risk reduction strategies.