When earthquake damage is seen as preventable: Attributions, locus of control and attitudes to risk

Previous studies have demonstrated that locus of control and risk attitudes influence preparation for natural hazards. Two studies examined which of these two factors is the stronger predictor of earthquake judgements and preparation. These concepts were linked to attribution models of earthquake damage, by examining the effect of the distinctiveness of damage on attributions, and explanatory complexity. In both studies, the first with students and the second with non-student members of the public, low risk-takers were more likely to have made more preparations for earthquakes, and distinctive damage was judged more preventable than global damage. With students, low risk-taking also predicted judgements that an earthquake was probable. Students with a more internal locus of control were more likely to judge that distinctive earthquake damage was preventable, whereas nonstudents with a more internal locus of control were more likely to give complex explanations of earthquake damage. These findings have several implications for enhancing preparedness for earthquakes and other hazards.