Communication channels, risk perception and psychological impact in natural hazard: a meta-analysis and systematic review

Introduction: Natural disaster management necessitates an integrated approach that addresses the effectiveness of risk communication and the psychological impact on exposed communities. Understanding these elements is crucial to promoting adaptive behaviors and strengthening community resilience in the face of natural hazards. Objectives: This work combines a meta-analysis on the impact of communication strategies on adaptive behaviors toward natural hazards and a systematic review on the psychological effects of natural hazards. The meta-analysis aims to identify the most effective communication channels (traditional and digital) during the prevention or preparedness, the response, and the recovery phases. On the other hand, the systematic review aims to analyze the emotional and behavioral consequences of natural hazard exposure on affected populations, to understand resilience factors for the psychological coping with natural hazards. Materials & Methods: The meta-analysis and systematic review follow the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, with the first focusing only on quantitative research. A query string on Scopus, Web of Science, and PsycINFO databases is used in both studies. Results: Preliminary results of the meta-analysis suggest that different communication strategies are related to risk perception and resilience for promoting adaptive behaviors. The systematic review shows the main negative psychological impacts, involving both affective and cognitive reactions among populations exposed to natural hazards. Conclusions: The findings underscore the importance of developing multimodal communication strategies suitable for different contexts, as well as multidisciplinary approaches to improve psychological support and resilience in communities affected by natural disasters.