Development and validation of a crisis self-efficacy index

Abstract

This study develops a crisis self-efficacy index to provide a tool for crisis communication researchers and practitioners to understand behavioural aspects of crisis response better. Evaluations of public's crisis self-efficacy using this index inform strategic message development to protect the public and minimize crisis damages by identifying the public/s most in need of self-efficacy enhancing interventions. The index also provides practitioners a useful longitudinal index to evaluate progress in crisis preparedness programs and track changes in efficacy. A four-stage survey index development process using structural equation modelling identifies four underlying constructs of crisis self-efficacy: action, preventive, achievement and uncertainty management.