Vulnerable Populations in Emergency Situations: Survey of Japanese Individuals in the Greater Boston Area after Boston Marathon Bombing

Purpose:  Previous research has found that ethnic minorities, females, unmarried people, children, and older adults are particularly vulnerable to traumatic events and exhibit higher levels of emotional disturbance. In addition, initial responses to the event and anxiety levels are significantly correlated to later PTSD symptoms. However, few studies have focused on the Asian population. This study conducted a survey of Japanese people in the Greater Boston area to identify risk factors that are associated with higher anxiety levels in response to a series of Boston Marathon Bombing incidents.   

Methods: Data are from paper and online surveys collected from 313 Japanese people living in the Greater Boston area. Surveys were conducted two months after the bombing incident. Logistic regression analysis was executed to identify factors associated with anxiety.

Results: During the incident, 74% of the participants answered that they had anxiety. After two months, 19% of the participants still exhibited some anxiety. During the incident, the odds of having higher level of anxiety were 2.2 times greater for females than males (p<0.05) and 92% lower for older people than younger counterpart (p<0.001). Analysis also revealed that a prolonged high anxiety level was associated with one’s location to be exposed; closer to the scene, more anxiety (OR=2.35, p<0.05).

Discussion/Implications: This study illustrated the importance of psychosocial support for women, regardless of their family structure. Moreover, the older population is less likely to perceive anxiety, which might cause less preparation for an emergency situation. The ways of alarm for older generation need to be considered. The findings from this study encourage professionals in the community agencies to set an agenda to provide effective service for both prevention and intervention. This study has implications for practice, including the promotion of emotional and behavioral health for vulnerable populations in the community.