To what extent does survival in a natural hazard depend upon levels of wealth?

Question 1

Define Perception

Answer 1

The way in which something e.g. a natural hazard is regarded, understood or interpreted

Question 2

Factors affecting hazard perception

Answer 2

. Level of education

. Past Experience

. Religion, cultural / ethnic background

. Occupation / Employment Status

. Family and martial status

. Socio - economic status — In wealthier areas there is a sense that the better you are prepared, the more you will be able to withstand the impact of the hazard.

A sense of helplessness tends to increase with the level of poverty. These people may have a sense of fatalism and see natural hazards as part of their way of life and see them as unavoidable.

Question 3

Name three ways people may perceive natural hazards

Answer 3

. Fatalism (acceptance) : Hazards are natural events that are part of life. Some say that natural hazards are ‘God’s Will’

Losses are accepted as inevitable and people remain where they are

Adaptation : People see that they can prepare for and therefore survive the events by prediction, prevention or protection. This depends upon the economic and technological status on the area

Fear : The risks posed by the hazard are so great that people feel vulnerable so they move away from the hazardous area