Exploring the Experiences of Community Leaders Following an EF5 tornado

Abstract

Exploring the Experiences of Community Leaders Following an EF5 Tornado

by

Thomas E. Orr

MSEd, Northern State University, 1978

BA, Colorado Christian University, 1976

Proposal Submitted in Partial Fulfillment

of the Requirements for the Degree of

Doctor of Philosophy

General Psychology

Walden University

December, 2016

Abstract

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) the U.S. experiences an average of 1200 tornadoes each year, causing 60 deaths and over 1500 injuries. The problem of significant human suffering and psychological trauma occurs following a tornado and this trauma needs to be reduced by proper community preparation and response. However, few national, state, or local tornado related definitions, standards, and codes are available to help communities prepare for tornadoes or to respond to them. The purpose of this study was to learn from the experiences of Joplin community leaders following an EF5 tornado to improve tornado preparation and response for other communities and thus mitigate the ensuing traumatic effects. This rare EF5 tornado was the deadliest and most costly tornado since modern record keeping began in 1950. Community leaders were defined as persons recognized by an organization to make decisions, speak on behalf of the organization, direct, delegate, provide information, and looked to for guidance in a time of crisis. This study examined information from community leaders to help reduce the negative social and psychological effects caused by tornadoes. Providing insights may help reduce fatalities, injuries, trauma effects, and property damage within communities in tornado prone areas. A qualitative phenomenological methodology was utilized for this study. Interview questions examined the experiences of community leaders following the EF5 tornado. Data was gathered through participant interviews; journaling by the researcher and member checking helped insure trustworthiness. Positive social change will occur through identifying more effective tornado preparedness and response strategies.