Digital media, risk perception, and earthquake preparedness among Indonesian urban youth

Abstract

Earthquakes pose an ongoing threat in Indonesia, particularly in densely populated urban areas near fault lines. Despite increased access to digital platforms for disaster information, many young individuals remain underprepared for seismic events. This study investigates how digital media influences earthquake preparedness through the mediating role of risk perception, focusing on Generations Y and Z in urban Java – demographics known for high digital engagement yet low practical readiness. A cross-sectional survey of 238 respondents aged 18–42 employed a structured questionnaire measuring digital risk amplification, risk perception, and preparedness behaviour. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, regression modelling and mediation testing using the Baron and Kenny framework, with Sobel test validation. The results indicate that digital media exposure significantly predicts risk perception, which in turn has a strong positive effect on preparedness. However, digital media alone does not directly influence preparedness behaviour. Risk perception fully mediates the relationship between digital exposure and readiness, suggesting that awareness raised by digital content must be internalised as personally relevant to translate into action. These findings provide empirical support for the Social Amplification of Risk Framework and the Diffusion of Innovations Theory, highlighting the importance of cognitive and emotional engagement in digital risk communication. The study contributes to disaster communication literature by identifying key psychological mechanisms linking digital information consumption with protective behaviour. It also offers practical insights for designing persuasive, emotionally resonant and action-oriented disaster messaging for younger urban populations in high-risk regions such as Indonesia.
Contribution: This study contributes empirical evidence on how digital risk communication affects disaster preparedness through cognitive pathways, offering insights for designing more effective public risk messages in the Indonesian context.