13: GEARING UP FOR CRISES: DEVELOPING A CRISIS READINESS QUESTIONNAIRE

In view of the rise of extreme events and increasing frequency of transboundary crises occurring worldwide, crisis readiness becomes increasingly pertinent.

The aim of this study is to develop a questionnaire assessing the crisis ready mindset of Singaporean youths and examine how cognitive biases and cultural variables influence the crisis ready mindset.

A crisis ready mindset can be broken down into six dimensions:

1. Perceived possibility of crises

2. Preparation for crises

3. Reaction to surprise element of crises

4. Emotional reaction

5. Cognitive processes

6. Coping ability

To avoid cognitive biases in crisis readiness, there are strategies that can be undertaken at the individual and national level. On the individual level, the premortem technique can be adopted. Recommendations on crisis communications to the public will also be discussed.