Changes in Family Functioning in the Aftermath of a Natural Disaster: The 2004 Tsunami in Southeast Asia

Abstract

This study examines parents' perceptions of how the 2004 SouthEast Asia tsunami has affected themselves and their families. The families were all on vacation in an area affected by the tsunami. Parents traveling with children aged 6–18 were first interviewed approximately 10 months after the tsunami and again 2.5 years after. The results indicate that experiencing the tsunami influenced family relations (sense of cohesion was strengthened many families, and family members showed each other increased care), family values (families had become less materialistic and were more oriented toward enhancing human relations), and daily routines and activities (families made practical changes in their daily lives to accommodate the needs of individual family members after the tsunami). A few parents experienced an elevation of conflict, indicating the importance of communicating about the experience. For the most part, these changes remained stable at 2.5 years.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Camilla Vibe Lindgaard

Camilla Vibe Lindgaard is a sociologist currently working at the Norwegian Ministry of Education and Research, Department of Early Education and Care. The study was conducted when she was working at the Norwegain Center for Violence and Traumatic Stress Studies. She has conducted research on families, intimate relations, and rescue personnel.

Tove Iglebaek

Tove Iglebaek is a psychologist working at a psychiatric clinic for adults. She has conducted research on children's meaning-making process and on family relations.

Tine K. Jensen

Tine K. Jensen is a specialist in clinical psychology and has a Ph.D. in Psychology. She is currently working at the Norwegian Center for Violence and Traumatic Stress Studies. Her research is on traumatized children.