When people think of disasters, the common image is one of social breakdown. Because of the frequency, vividness, and potential significance of disasters, a number of widespread stereotypes have developed about behavior in disaster. The popular image of disaster has often centered on the theme of personal chaos. Such an image is frequently documented by isolated anecdotes used to prove the universality of such behavior. This image suggests that individuals panic and that individuals lose their

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... oncern for others.... They act irratio nally in terms of their own self interest. Also, as the result of the disaster expe rience, it is suggested that people become hostile and take aggressive action toward others. Another facet of the image suggests that victims develop a "disaster syndrome," a docile, childlike condition, and as a result must be "cared for" by some protective organization, acting in a parental way.... At the community level, the image of a "social jungle" prevails. People, hysterical and helpless, gradually shed the thin veneer of civilization and exploit others. It is said that looting is common and outside authority is perhaps necessary in order to inhibit these resurgent primitive urges. It is assumed that many will flee from the disaster area in mass panic, leaving the community stripped of its human and natural resources. (4)