Disasters tend to pull people together, and there can be a massive volunteer effort. Although disaster brings suffering, that 'suffering' is more collective and public than predisaster suffering, which is isolating and private. The sociological research into disasters also has implications for public policy and practical applications. By studying warning systems, communication and preparedness by emergency units and relief agencies in the past, lessons can be learned to improve the response when future disasters occur. For example, it was believed by some that giving warning and information about pending disasters, such as floods, can cause panic, but research has shown that is not the case.
People respond reasonably when they understand what is happening.
Communication between hospitals and emergency units is essential in caring for those in crisis situations, and procedures should be established for emergency response in preparation for disasters. The book also looks at the long-term effects of a disaster, in such areas as housing. In addition to carrying out field research, the Disaster Research Center maintains a large data archive that is a valuable resource for scholars from around the world. It also publishes and makes available a series of books, monographs and reports on disaster research that can be purchased directly from the center. University of Delaware Press books are available at the University Bookstore.