Home⇛Journal of Interdisciplinary Perspectives⇛vol. 4 no. 2 (2026)

SEM of Disaster Preparedness, Resiliency, Risk Perception, Protective Behavior, and Social Media Use

Jayson U. Gerona | Nestor C. Nabe

Discipline: social sciences (non-specific)

 

Abstract:

This study aimed to develop and test a structural equation model (SEM) to explain community disaster preparedness and resilience, based on disaster risk perception, protective behavior against natural calamities, and the use of social media for disaster management, addressing the limited empirical research that integrates these factors within a single analytical framework. A quantitative, descriptive-correlational design was employed, involving 400 adult respondents from the Caraga Region, Philippines, using validated survey instruments. Results revealed high levels of disaster risk awareness, protective behavior, social media engagement, and community resilience. Correlation and regression analyses showed that disaster risk perception and protective behavior were the strongest predictors of community preparedness and resilience. At the same time, social media use played a supportive but significant role. Structural equation modeling identified the best-fitting model with acceptable goodness-of-fit indices, confirming the interrelated influence of cognitive, behavioral, and communication factors on disaster readiness. The findings provide empirical support for integrating Protection Motivation Theory and the Theory of Planned Behavior in disaster risk reduction planning. Overall, the study offers practical, policy-relevant insights for strengthening community-based disaster preparedness and supports the advancement of sustainable, resilient communities in line with Sustainable Development Goal 11.



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