Young adults on childhood experiences of induced minor earthquakes: the impact of chronic human-made disaster in the Netherlands

Purpose Early life exposure to disaster can impact children's development, even when the disaster is not large scale or destructive. This study explores the long-term lived experiences of youth exposed to chronic, small-scale disasters resulting from human-made hazards. These disasters, and the perspectives of young people, are often overlooked in disaster management. Design/methodology/approach We conducted episodic interviews with 18 young adults (aged 18–30, M = 22.34) who had been exposed since childhood to the consequences of minor induced earthquakes in Groningen, the Netherlands. Findings Thematic analysis identified four main themes: (1) unstable living conditions, (2) management efforts, (3) social responses and (4) meaning making. Participants described growing up in socially and physically unstable environments, where perceived injustices and collective disadvantage fostered ongoing institutional distrust. Some young adults developed long-term mental health struggles related to an additional unstable home environment, in which parents had to raise them under stressful circumstances. Research limitations/implications To learn more about variation in experiences and the impact of an unstable home environment, further research on these disasters should focus on individual and family resilience. Practical implications Effects of disaster management on youth should be monitored to avoid long-term consequences and promote citizenship. Originality/value This study proposes that chronic disaster impact can remain hidden if assessment does not include young people's views on disaster management.