Consideration of factors indicating voluntary assistance for other areas damaged by disaster: Case of the Great East Japan Earthquake

In the aftermath of a large-scale disaster, stricken areas depend greatly on other areas for assistance. In Japan, large-scale disasters are expected to occur in the future. Based on results of an opinion poll administered to individuals on the internet, this study assesses factors supporting voluntary assistance. Results show that most motives to participate in voluntary assistance are related to connections with the stricken area. The amount of assistance is affected by information promulgated by media. Results show that aid providers who are invited by friends and who participate thereafter are worthy subjects of research.