AIM AND OBJECTIVES – Objective of this research is to explore experiences of people affected disaster in Indonesia and process of growth and recovery after disaster. Result of this study is expected to be the basis for further research in disaster area in Indonesia and development of guideline in disaster intervention in Indonesia, which adapt the local cultural context. Intervention program that develop with appropriate cultural context is expected to improve community well-being, especially the affected and the Indonesian people in general.

METHODS – A qualitative research with purposeful sampling was conducted. 16 participants with various backgrounds in age, level of education, occupation, religion and social economic status were interviewed. Four focus group discussions in groups of five were conducted: group of male, female, older people and adolescents. All informants were between the ages of 15 – 72 years old. Interview and Focus Group Discussion were conducted in participant’s residence in Krinjing Village, Magelang District, Central Java Province, Indonesia.

RESULTS – This study found that people identify Merapi eruption as both disaster and blessing event. This understanding was based on their experience living with disaster, and level of severity. Despite any difficulties they face after disaster, villagers still perceive the eruption in positive manner regarding the benefit they will gain after the eruption. Perceiving situation after disaster in more positive manner made them have positive way to cope and handle difficulties after eruption. Another result suggested that emotional responses reported by informants are fear, panic and trauma. People experienced living in evacuation camp for more than 30 days and they keep returning home even as the eruption continues to feed their livestock. Villagers should make any adjustment when living in evacuation camp, regarding adjusting to new life situation, activity and with people from different background they shared their life with. In addition, they feel that sharing feelings as survivor made them respect, care and help each other.