Date of Conferral

2022

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Public Policy and Administration

Advisor

Michael Brewer

Abstract

AbstractDisaster preparedness for emergency response within transitional houses is a problem that often fails to receive attention, a situation that can lead to injuries or death during disaster events. One of the factors responsible for this lapse is the contractual nature of most of the transitional houses, with inherent inadequacies in types and quality of services. Although research in this area is relatively scarce, a synthesis of literature reviewed suggested greater focus on disaster management in other areas and almost nothing with regards to transitional houses. The purpose of this qualitative study was to better understand staff emergency preparedness in transitional houses in Texas. The theoretical framework was the risk perception theory. The research question addressed the perceptions of staff of transitional houses in Texas on preparedness for emergency response. This was a qualitative study that used purposeful sampling, open-ended interview, and document review as instruments. Fourteen participants were drawn from staff and volunteers. Data from the interviews were coded and analyzed using thematic coding as part of content analysis. Findings supported the position of previous researchers on the need for staff and volunteers working in transitional houses to receive proper training and periodic exercises. The positive social change impact included providing administrators and policymakers a template for formulating and/or evaluating policies designed to ensure effective emergency preparedness in transitional houses in Texas. Such policy changes may also be adopted by other transitional houses, potentially reducing safety concerns of the residents during disasters

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