Research Article

Coping with technological disaster: An application of the conservation of resources model to the Exxon Valdez oil spill

  1. Catalina M. Arata1,*,
  2. J. Steven Picou2,
  3. G. David Johnson2,
  4. T. Scott McNally3

Article first published online: 30 JUN 2005

DOI: 10.1023/A:1007764729337

Issue

Journal of Traumatic Stress

Journal of Traumatic Stress

Volume 13, Issue 1, pages 23–39, January 2000

Additional Information

How to Cite

Arata, C. M., Picou, J. S., Johnson, G. D. and McNally, T. S. (2000), Coping with technological disaster: An application of the conservation of resources model to the Exxon Valdez oil spill. J. Traum. Stress, 13: 23–39. doi: 10.1023/A:1007764729337

Author Information

  1. 1

    Department of Psychology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama 36688

  2. 2

    Department of Sociology and Anthropology, University of South Alabama

  3. 3

    University of Alabama

*Department of Psychology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama 36688

Publication History

  1. Issue published online: 30 JUN 2005
  2. Article first published online: 30 JUN 2005

SEARCH

SEARCH BY CITATION

ARTICLE TOOLS

Get PDF (1030K)

Keywords:

  • technological disasters;
  • Exxon Valdezoil spill;
  • Conservation of Resources model

Abstract

One hundred twenty-five commercial fishers in Cordova, Alaska, completed a mailed survey regarding current mental health functioning 6 years after the Exxon Valdez oil spill. Economic and social impacts of the oil spill and coping and psychological functioning (modified Coping Strategies Scales, Symptom Checklist 90-R) were measured. Multiple regression was used to test the utility of the Conservation of Resources stress model for explaining observed psychological symptoms. Current symptoms of depression, anxiety, and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder were associated with conditions resource loss and avoidant coping strategies. The Conservation of Resources model provided a framework for explaining psychological impacts of the oil spill. Future research is needed to identify factors related to recovery.

Get PDF (1030K)