Women’s Lived Experience of Flood and Coping Strategies: A Study in Bangladesh

In Bangladesh, frequent flooding occurrences have a detrimental effect on women, who are disproportionately affected. Due to sociocultural restrictions that society perpetuates, women are less adaptive and more vulnerable than men during flood catastrophes. This study aims to investigate women’s experiences during floods and to know the coping mechanisms they employ to stay alive. A qualitative research approach was used to achieve this goal, which included conducting in-depth interviews with thirty participants and performing focus groups with six distinct groups. The study demonstrates how rural areas and flood catastrophes exacerbate women’s vulnerability issues because of their inability to adapt. The patriarchal culture that permeates rural Bangladesh is primarily to blame for this, as it makes it difficult to acquire the required resources, knowledge, skills, and adaptability. Therefore, this article makes the case for the government’s steadfast dedication to fully utilizing women’s potential to improve their capacity for adaptation and integration into society at large, thereby fostering positive societal progress by lessening their vulnerability.