Insights from Prof. Toji Kamata, Center for Disaster Studies and Disaster Social Support Training in Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto University Professor Emeritus Toji Kamata, who recently founded the Center for Disaster Studies and Disaster Social Support Training in Kyoto, explains that disaster victims go through four psychological stages after a disaster.
1) Stage of Shock and Disorientation
99% of disaster victims experience shock and enter a state of disorientation. However, a small percentage—around 1%, or even as few as 0.1%—engage in heroic actions, risking their own safety to protect people and property. Relief organizations can accelerate recovery efforts by consulting and working with these individuals.
2) Honeymoon Phase
As recovery begins, victims become united and develop a sense of optimism. At the same time, however, the stress of their disrupted lives continues to build. A strong sense of solidarity emerges among those who have gone through similar experiences, fostering a warm and supportive atmosphere as they work together in anticipation of aid.
3) Disillusionment Phase
As the initial chaos settles and recovery efforts begin, disparities in the pace of recovery emerge. Feelings of helplessness and exhaustion grow, and those who feel left behind start to experience despair, anger, and depression. Patience reaches its limit, leading to outbursts of frustration and resentment, while the sense of solidarity and empathy weakens. Reducing these negative emotions and shortening this difficult period is a key challenge.
4) Reconstruction Phase
At this stage, most victims begin to regain stability in their lives. As daily routines gradually return, some gain the courage to rebuild, while others struggle, feeling left behind due to a lack of support. The gap between these groups becomes increasingly evident.
Support for Fire Victims
Under the theme "Connect Fire Victims, Support Victims," Cultural News is organizing relief efforts for those affected by the Eaton and Palisades wildfires.
Disaster victims have diverse needs. Currently, many victims have secured temporary accommodations and are receiving donations.
As Prof. Kamata describes, disaster victims are now entering the Disillusionment Phase. Our priority is to reduce their burden as much as possible and shorten this stressful period.
We ask the community for support of fire victims in Los Angeles.
Shige Higashi, Cultural News Editor higashi@culturalnews.com
