Reliability of delayed self‐reports in disaster research

Abstract In studies of traumatic stress, researchers often find themselves asking questions about an event and its aftermath long after the crisis has passed. The purpose of this study was to assess the reliability of these delayed self‐reports. In January, 1990, 65 residents of Charleston, SC, were interviewed by telephone about their experiences following Hurricane Hugo, which had devastated the area on September 22, 1989. The interview included assessments of disaster‐related losses, preparedness, social support received from others, and social support provided to others. In October, 1990, 53 of these persons (82% of the original sample) were reinterviewed and asked the exact same questions. For reports of losses and preparedness, accuracy of the later reports was excellent. Both the sample and individuals showed remarkable stability over time. For measures of social support, there was a sample tendency to recall more social support as time passed, but individuals generally retained their same rank order. Thus, these reports were also reliable.