Understand that men and women may respond and prepare differently for a storm's approach and its aftermath.
CouplesThere are no set differences between how men and women will react to a disaster however, there are generalities in how they approach problem solving:
men tend to take a linear approach whereas women can explore different parts of the problem and possible solutions before arriving at a conclusion.
Whatever your particular circumstances, it’s important to set limits ahead of time since there tends to be more stress among couples than any other relationship during a crisis. If there is something your partner tends to do (i.e. waiting until the last minute to buy bottled water, put up hurricane shutters, etc.) face this head on BEFORE there is a hurricane. Try this... Let them know how much that behavior upsets you. Have a discussion that focuses on recognizing each other’s strengths and assign tasks based on these.
After the storm hits, be respectful of how your partner feels.
Understand that their emotions might not be based solely on the events that are happening at the moment, but also on past situations where they might have experienced loss, separation or something they love being destroyed.
Knowing and respecting these emotional boundaries should also be a part of setting limits ahead of time.
