An approach to the background, methods and challenges of research in disasters

Abstract

Disasters are phenomena of global distribution and increasing impact, with a social and interdisciplinary nature and that often require the use of quantitative and qualitative methods to be investigated. The purpose of this paper is to explore the historical background of disaster research, the current use of epidemiological methods in disasters, as well as the difficulties and future challenges of research in this field. This study considers bibliographic elements and specific non-bibliographic events that have determined the historical evolution of disaster research, as well as its conceptual framework, particularly in relation to the approaches from which the research has been carried out and the range of methods epidemiological used. This is not a standard review. Current disaster research is developed for a wide variety of purposes, including the identification and characterization of populations exposed or at risk of disaster; the study and establishment of the exposure model for each specific type of disaster; the estimation of the incidence and prevalence of the different types of disaster and the quantification of the impacts in the short, medium and long term. Research is also carried out in the field of disasters to assess needs, plan relevant and efficient types of aid; model and predict the occurrence and to design adequate and efficient prevention, preparedness, mitigation and rehabilitation strategies. Even so, the predominant research on disasters is still very much focused on certain partial aspects of the phenomenon such as the response to the disaster and directed towards specific types of disasters, especially those of rapid onset. There is still little multidisciplinary and collaborative research among researchers from the different areas of interest that constitute the disaster phenomenon. Important challenges persist in disaster research, including the design of a common conceptual framework that allows multidisciplinary research in disasters, the development of specific methods to investigate complex emergencies (complex humanitarian emergencies) or disasters related to climate change; the development of a specific approach to investigate slow-onset disasters and their social, political and cultural factors, as well as research to develop feasible and cost-efficient prevention and response strategies. Solving these challenges will depend to a large extent to which the investigative capacity of managers and heads of organizations and field personnel working in disasters is improved.