Logistical and Methodological Challenges in Conducting a Mental Health Survey of Mount Pinatubo Disaster Victims

On 12 June 1991, Mt Pinatubo in the Philippines erupted in what was the largest volcanic disaster of this century. Three hundred and fifty-one tribal and nontribal disaster victims were interviewed 6 years after they were displaced following the eruption. The acute and chronic effects of the eruption and the populations affected by Mt Pinatubo are described. The culturally and ecologically diverse population imposed logistical and methodological challenges that were expressed in ways not ordinarily encountered when conducting a community survey. Translating and administering survey instruments involved modifications of traditional methods to minimize item, method, construct and selection bias. Investigators conducting cross-cultural field studies in developing countries must strive to maintain high standards of scientific rigor, yet remain flexible, efficient and culturally sensitive.