Informal Material Convergence Behavior and Emergency Management: Looking a Gift Horse in the Mouth

Abstract

Informal material convergence behavior is the spontaneous movement of unsolicited donations from donors to emergency management for disaster relief activities. This behavior is widely accepted as an appropriate social response after disasters. However, this behavior frequently results in excessive amounts of unsolicited donations which create numerous problems for emergency management. Most donors appear unaware of the issues associated with contributing unsolicited donations. The challenge is to reeducate the media and the public about what are considered the appropriate types of donations to contribute for disaster survivors. Informal material convergence behavior is a problem that can be resolved through social-psychological approaches. Social-psychological research can be used in donation strategies to help solve this problem. This includes incorporating persuasive techniques into hazard awareness messaging, using technology and social media to convey the messaging, and conducting more disaster research and monitoring to ascertain if messaging is received, interpreted, and acted upon as intended.