Disasters and deviant behavior: risk factors and citizen perceptions in Serbia

Authors

  • Vladimir Cvetković Faculty of Security Studies, University of Belgrade, Gospodara Vučića 50, Belgrade, Serbia Author
  • Tamara Stojanović Scientific-Professional Society for Disaster Risk Management, Dimitrija Tucovića 121, 11040 Belgrade, Serbia Author
  • Vladimir Jakovljević Faculty of Security Studies, University of Belgrade, Gospodara Vučića 50, Belgrade, Serbia Author
  • Vanja D. Cvetković ProSafeNet, a global hub for safety, security, risk, and emergency professionals and scientists, 11040 Belgrade, Serbia Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.19236675

Keywords:

disasters, deviant behavior, violence, gender-based violence, mental health, citizen perceptions, awareness, preparedness to respond, risk communication, Serbia

Abstract

Disasters, in addition to immediate material losses, can trigger secondary psychosocial processes that increase the risk of various forms of deviant and violent behavior. This paper aims to examine citizens' perceptions in Serbia regarding the connections between disasters, violence, and deviant behavior, as well as factors associated with awareness, self-assessed readiness to respond, and attitudes toward the role of institutions in prevention. The research was conducted through an online survey of 106 respondents in Serbia. Likert scales (P26–P30) and categorical variables (P12–P25) were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlations, chi-square tests of independence, one-way ANOVA, and multiple linear regression. The results show a high level of basic awareness of natural disaster and violence concepts, but also a strong perception that a significant part of the Serbian population lacks adequate operational knowledge of disaster consequences and post-disaster actions (M=4.39). Respondents are more likely to recognize the impact of disasters on mental health (M=4.21) and the importance of competent services in preventing violence (M=4.12). At the same time, their self-assessed readiness to respond is moderate (M=3.82). The strongest association within attitudes was observed between support for education and assessment of the impact of disasters on mental health (r=0.40; p<0.001). Chi-square analyses indicated several significant associations with gender and income (small to moderate effects). At the same time, ANOVA differences were confirmed in two cases: by gender for attitude about PTSD/mental health and by income for self-rated readiness to respond. Regression models suggest a limited role for sociodemographic factors in explaining attitudes, suggesting a likely greater role for experiential and contextual factors (disaster experience, trust in institutions, exposure to training). The findings support the need for systemic risk communication and the development of practically oriented educational programs that, with clear reporting protocols and inter-institutional coordination, can reduce the risk of escalation of violence and deviant behaviors in crisis settings.

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Published

22-02-2026

Issue

Vol. 1 No. 1 (2026): Fourth Memorial Scientific and Professional Conference - Modern Integrated Disaster Risk Management

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Articles

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Copyright (c) 2026 Vladimir Cvetković, Tamara Stojanović, Vladimir Jakovljević, Vanja D. Cvetković (Author)

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How to Cite

Cvetković, V., Stojanović, T., Jakovljević, V., & Cvetković, V. D. (2026). Disasters and deviant behavior: risk factors and citizen perceptions in Serbia. Scientific and Professional Conference ‘‘Predrag Marić‘‘, Faculty of Security Studies, University of Belgrade, 1(1), 1-34. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.19236675

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