Factors associated with resilience in the context of multiple consecutive disasters: A qualitative study of survivors of World Trade Center, Hurricane Sandy, and COVID-19 disasters

Research on recovery after consecutive major disasters with traumatic effects remains limited. Understanding factors that promote resilience can enhance preparedness, response, and recovery for those facing multiple disasters. This study utilized a modified grounded theory approach, framed by Bonanno's, and the Acknowledgment, Reframe, and Tailoring model, to examine resilience trajectories/pathways among a cohort exposed to the September 11, 2001-attacks, 2012 Hurricane Sandy, and 2020 COVID-19 pandemic. Twenty-four purposively selected participants with 2+ disaster exposures completed in-depth semi-structured interviews. Individuals with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) were compared to similarly exposed individuals without PTSD to identify factors that promote resilience. Analysis revealed three resilience trajectories: sustained resilience, conditional recovery, and chronic vulnerability with deep-seated resilience. While individual coping strategies (problem-focused, faith-based, or avoidant/maladaptive) were important, the “rebound” process was supported by consistent multi-level supports, including family and social support, community engagement, and institutional/socioecological resources. Participants with sustained resilience utilized proactive coping with institutional support, whereas those with chronic vulnerability faced institutional service failures, relying on personal grit and community support to bounce back. These findings support an ecological model of resilience, indicating that disaster preparedness, response, and recovery must extend beyond individual-level interventions to include strengthened social, community, and institutional supports. • Explores resilience after 9/11, Sandy, and COVID-19 in disaster survivors. • Identifies three resilience trajectories following consecutive major disasters. • Identifies multi-level supports as key to coping with repeated disaster exposure. • PTSD did not always hinder recovery if strong support systems were available. • Institutional trust and tailored resources are critical for post-disaster recovery.