Satisfied Enough to Take Action? The Role of Neighborhood Perceptions on Disaster Preparedness Behaviors in the United States

This study examines how neighborhood perceptions, measured through satisfaction and observable conditions, relate to risk perception and shape residents’ disaster preparedness behaviors. It employs regression models using the 2017 American Housing Survey data. Findings indicate that households satisfied with their neighborhoods are more likely to engage in disaster preparedness behaviors. Moreover, the presence of abandoned structures or the lack of good schools discourages such actions. In communities with low awareness of disaster risks, improving neighborhood conditions can encourage disaster preparedness behaviors and increase community protection against disaster risks.