Resilient Communication : A New Crisis Communication Strategy for Homeland Security

Current crisis communication plans and guidance at all levels of government focus almost exclusively on communication during a crisis, rather than a comprehensive approach that also addresses the timeframe well before and well after a disaster. Furthermore, existing crisis communication strategy does not include approaches to enhance resiliency in individuals and communities affected by disaster. A case study of the 2007 Greensburg, Kansas tornado assessed the crisis communication strategy surrounding the disaster to assist in the development of a new comprehensive crisis communication strategy for homeland security. The case study revealed the need for homeland security leaders to reframe crisis communication by considering disasters as the norm, not a rarity. The case study also found significant benefits to utilizing a complex systems approach in crisis communication strategy, specifically the pragmatic complexity model. New crisis communication approaches were recommended including a public partnership approach and a resilient messaging/survivor psychology approach. The research recommendations also included specific before and after message themes to engage the public and help them become more resilient. The case study and research concluded a state-level strategy would be most beneficial and would allow specific messaging to be delivered by leaders familiar to the community affected.

Department dc:contributor.department

National Security Affairs (CHDS)

Grantor dc:publisher

Monterey, CA; Naval Postgraduate School

Year dc:date.issued

2012

Author dc:creator

• Watson, Sharon L.

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Bellavita, Christopher

Statement dc:rights

• Copyright is reserved by the copyright owner.

Handle dc:identifier.uri

https://hdl.handle.net/10945/6885

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:calhoun.nps.edu:10945/6885