23 is likely that individuals working in the coastal zone may feel a sense of
powerlessness and possibly even fear, about continuing their occupation. A third adaptation to hazards is a decreased tendency for deferred gratification. Logically,
an increase in fatalism and decrease in optimism will cause less deferred gratification because an individual is less likely to save for future time if they are
unsure what that future will bring Heijmans 2004:123. Changing perceptions in response to a disaster imply that proposed recovery projects should address
decreased perceived control and job satisfaction, increased fatalism and lesser tendency to defer gratification.
2.5 Implications for Proposed Projects
Individuals are more likely to be satisfied by an occupation that increases self-confidence and provides a sense of accomplishment. Barrett et al. suggest a
positive correlation between participant satisfaction with an occupation and initiatives that allow fostering relationships, accomplished tasks and power
decision-making 2005:90. The same characteristics that provide satisfaction with an occupation can influence satisfaction with a livelihood project. Barrett et al.
indicate that in their study, effective leaders and achieving small, concrete successes increases the likelihood of an individual’s satisfaction from a project
2005:98. Therefore, alternative livelihood projects suggested as part of rehabilitation projects should be designed to emphasize these factors.
Managers should attempt to implement projects that promote early return on investment and foster further optimism about future projects. Initial concrete
24 benefits and perception of benefits are two factors that have been identified in
influencing sustainability Pollnac and Pomeroy 2005. The benefits of successful livelihood projects should outweigh the cost of the time and energy for
participation Barrett et al. 2005:89, Rogers 2003. Participants are more likely to be satisfied by a given livelihood project if they see quick results before
committing large amounts of time and effort to the initiative Barrett et al. 2005:95. Successful accomplishment of short-term goals will also increase self-
confidence and mutual trust among participants. Generally, involving communities in decision-making increases likelihood of acceptance Tango-Lowy and Robertson
2002:241. Rehabilitation projects should attempt to transfer organizational structure
and type of former occupations as much as possible. If recovery programs cannot rehabilitate former livelihoods, training and social solidarity should be emphasized
during early implementation activities to increase their likelihood of success Pollnac et al. 1991.
2.6 Research Topic and Hypotheses
