Household Adjustment to Earthquake Hazard

Data from 23 studies confirm theoretical predictions that households’ adoption of earthquake hazard adjustments is correlated with their perceptions of the hazard and alternative adjustments, demographic characteristics, and social influences. However, some findings require modification of existing theories of hazard adjustment. Examination of the methods used in previous investigations underscores a need for better theories, more complete testing of existing theories, and improved data analytic and data reporting procedures in future tests of those theories.