A Study of the Relational Factors of Panic Buying, Donation and Sending Supplies During the Great Eastern Japan Earthquake Disaster

Results from an Internet Survey

Abstract

The authors conducted an internet survey regarding the March 2011 Great Eastern Japan Earthquake Disaster. The sample was taken from the nationwide internet monitor, an internet-based survey, living outside the disaster areas Optimal scaling and cross tabulation were used to analyze behaviors such as "panic buying,” “giving monetary donation,”　and “sending supplies.” The result showed the following: a) social capital affect the behavior of cash donation and sending/offering of supplies; b) people who donate or send goods tend to reduce their expenses, and c) people living near the disaster area feel a strong sense of insecurity which leads to panic buying.