FÖRBEREDD OCH INTE RÄDD Ett genusperspektiv på prepping

Abstract

People may have always felt that the time they’re living in is the most dangerous and risky, and there is always a new threat to be seen on the horizon. The “modern” risks of climate change, nuclear accidents and economic collapse are said to be worse than any risks humanity have faced before, because of their uncertainty and scale. If worrying doesn't do you any good, how about preparing? The Swedish government urges its population to take individual responsibility in preparing for upcoming crises. However, far from everyone is listening and taking action. A survey ordered by the Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency (MSB) found that more women than men worry about risks and are willing to prepare individually. The purpose of this essay is to create a better understanding of the effects of gender on crisis preparedness in the form of prepping. This is done by interviewing Swedish preppers and comparing risk perceptions, motivations and preparedness practices among the men and women participating. Differences were found in the area of motivation, where worry was expressed as a motivator by women, whereas men expressed ambivalence or denunciation from worry. Differences were also found in the area of preparedness practices, where both men and women valued having a social network for a crisis situation, but prescribed different meanings to it. Gendered perceptions and practices were found to be both upheld and challenged within prepping.