Disaster Management Experiences and Psychosocial Problems of Individuals Who Survived the Earthquake in Turkey in the Earthquake of the Century: A Phenomenological Study

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this study is to examine the disaster management experiences and psychosocial problems of individuals who survived the earthquake in Turkey during the earthquake of the century.

Materials and methods: A qualitative research design, phenomenological research, was applied in this study. This qualitative study included 33 volunteer earthquake survivors. The interviews were conducted using WhatsApp. Colaizzi's phenomenological analysis method was used to analyze the data.

Results: In the analysis of the data, five themes (perception of the earthquake concept, things to do during an earthquake, actions taken to survive under the rubble, meeting everyday chores and dealing with post-earthquake challenges, perceptions of disaster management), and fifteensubthemes (features of the earthquake, emotions, thoughts, correct actions, incorrect actions, actions for the body, situation-oriented actions, housing, nutrition, hygiene, sleep, security, preparation, coping, and intervention) were identified.

Conclusion: The study showed that the earthquake negatively affected individuals psychosocially, but the effective spiritual coping mechanisms utilized to cope with the catastrophic event under the rubble supported the survival process. In addition, it was determined that the participants believed that religion and spirituality were important in coping with the earthquake.