Surviving Floods using Psychological Preparedness and Socioeconomic Assets in Ghana’s White Volta Basin

Abstract

This study focused on the annual Bagre dam spillage-induced floods in Ghana’s White Volta Basin and households’ resilience. We take up this issue because there are limited studies that delved into the drivers of household’s resilience to the perennial floods. We draw on the protection motivation theory and relevant literature across the world to provide guidance on the analysis of the data. This study explored the drivers of household’s resilience to floods using in-depth interviews involving 40 participants residing in communities affected by flooding. The data gathered were analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings indicated that the drivers that influenced households’ resilience to floods are hopefulness, inspiration, self-determination, social relationship support and emotional support. The findings of this study underscore the need for policymakers to prioritize proactive flood protection and ensure timely response, recovery, and restoration efforts.