An Examination of Teachers’ Post-Earthquake Trauma and Hopelessness Levels

Authors : İbrahim Aslan, Samet Ata, Songül Tümkaya

Pages : 34-57

View : 123 | Download : 64

Publication Date : 2025-04-30

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :This study aims to explore the relationship between post-earthquake trauma and feelings of hopelessness among teachers following the two devastating earthquakes, both with magnitudes exceeding 7.0, centered in Kahramanmaraş, Turkey, on February 6, 2023. Data were collected using the Post-Earthquake Trauma Level Assessment Scale and the Beck Hopelessness Scale. A total of 430 teachers from public schools in the earthquake-affected region participated in the study. The data were analyzed using t-tests, ANOVA, correlation, and regression analyses. The analysis revealed notable findings. Teachers’ trauma levels varied significantly based on gender, experiencing the loss of close ones, and receiving psychological support. However, no significant differences were observed regarding participation in search-and-rescue efforts. Similarly, hopelessness levels differed significantly for teachers who had experienced loss or sought psychological support but showed no differences based on gender or involvement in search-and-rescue operations. Teachers whose homes suffered slight, moderate, or severe damage reported significantly higher trauma levels than those whose homes were undamaged. Additionally, a moderate-to-strong positive correlation was found between trauma levels and hopelessness. Regression analysis showed that trauma accounted for 31% of the hopelessness experienced by female teachers and 39% by male teachers in the earthquake zone. The findings of the study shed light on the emotional toll of such disasters, offering insights into the factors that contribute to trauma and hopelessness. Based on these results, the study discusses potential approaches and provides recommendations to better support teachers in the aftermath of natural disasters.
Keywords : Doğal Afet, Deprem, Öğretmenler, Deprem Sonrası Travma, Umutsuzluk.