Lead researcher : Eve Pouliot

Co-researchers : Danielle Maltais, Christine Gervais et Kristel Tardif-Grenier

Abstract. This study documents the experiences of adolescents in the rural municipality of Pontiac and the urban neighbourhood of Mont-Bleu who had previously been exposed to natural disasters (floods, tornadoes), in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. A sequential mixed-methods design was used. First, a questionnaire was completed by 1,307 students. The data gathered were then explored in greater depth through 14 group interviews with young people and five group interviews with school staff. Preliminary findings indicate that young people who had previously been exposed to a disaster and who live in rural settings presented a more concerning profile than others during the pandemic. At a time when the risk of disaster is growing ever more frequent, notably as a result of climate disruption, the findings of this study will be useful to decision-makers and practitioners across a range of settings. The project was also selected for SSHRC’s digital marketing campaign for 2022–2023.