According to a 1976 study, how did people generally behave during the post-disaster period?

The study you're referring to highlights the typical reactions of individuals during the post-disaster period, indicating that people generally exhibited calmness rather than widespread panic. This finding underscores the notion that, contrary to popular belief, individuals tend to rally together, display resilience, and engage in cooperative behaviors when faced with crises.

Rather than succumbing to fear or chaos, many individuals focus on assessing their situation, helping others, and seeking assistance. This behavior can stem from a desire to restore normalcy and stability in the aftermath of a disaster. The concept of calmness in a crisis aligns with various psychological theories regarding social behavior, particularly regarding the innate human tendency to unite and support each other during times of adversity.

In contrast, the other options, such as widespread panic, docility, or antisocial behavior, do not reflect the observed behavior in the study. These alternatives suggest a more disruptive or uncoordinated response, which is inconsistent with the findings of individuals typically displaying calmness and cooperation in the face of disaster.