Examining the Use of Photovoice to Explore Disaster Risk Perception Among Native Hawaiians Living on O‘ahu: A Feasibility Study

The purpose of this feasibility study was to evaluate the use of Photovoice (PV) to explore disaster risk perception (RP) among Native Hawaiians living on O'ahu. Six participants identified 5 primary concerns: (a) issues of infrastructure, (b) Oahu’s dependence on imports, (c) concern for family, (d) the presence of outsiders in the community during disaster warning periods, and (e) the complexity of the issue. Findings from this study suggest PV shows potential as a useful tool for evaluating risk perception and providing valuable community insight. Despite the potentially stressful nature of examining the outcomes of a disaster, speaking with members of the community in a supportive environment provided protection and encouragement. Finally, the use of community-based participatory research (CBPR) and participatory action research (PAR) methodologies facilitates a trusting relationship between the researcher and the community which may help improve disaster-planning efforts.