Posttraumatic Growth Among Australian Farming Women After a Flood
There has been limited research into the impact of disasters on farming women, although it has been suggested that this population can face certain physical, social, and economic disadvantages that affect their recovery. In this study, we explored the impact of the 2010–2011 floods
in the state of Victoria in Australia on the lives of six farming women with 20-50+ years of farming experience. Interpretative phenomenological analysis revealed that the women experienced posttraumatic growth, transitioning from helplessness and emotional distress to acceptance and understanding.
Although further research is needed, the findings suggest that engagement in meaningful activity contributed to these women’s recovery after the flood. This knowledge may be used to inform the delivery of services and resources in flood-prone rural areas. Highlights: Three themes emerged
from the data (helplessness, adapting to change, and self-discovery); findings can be related to dimensions of posttraumatic growth; and engagement in meaningful activity appeared to facilitate positive change.
Keywords: Farming; floods; natural disasters; older women; posttraumatic growth
Document Type: Research Article
Affiliations: 1: La Trobe Rural Health School, La Trobe University, Bendigo, Victoria, Australia 2: Department for Michael Curtin, School of Community Health, Charles Sturt University, Albury, New South Wales, Australia
Publication date: 04 July 2017
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