Family routines changes in the unexpected transition due to natural disasters

Abstract

Natural disasters are disruptive events to the family routines and rituals, and they promote significant changes in life and health. The aim of this article is to discuss daily routines along with the trajectories in a family transition, due to a natural disaster occurred in a rural area. It is a qualitative study of multiple cases conducted on six families with children. Data were collected, in 2010, with participant observation techniques, narrative interview, genogram, eco-map and the family routines calendar. Narratives analysis have been performed and results have revealed changes in routines and rituals in the trajectories, between the pre-post disaster and nowadays. The abrupt transition has generated stressing reactions, affecting the members' health. Further studies on health are needed in the post-disaster, in order to contribute for knowledge, teaching and practice on nursing care, especially, within the family health strategy.

Family nursing; Family health; Natural disasters; Life change events