Survivors of the disaster of the century: A narrative approach to psychological resilience and emotional healing

Authors : Şerife Uğuz Arsu, Muhammet Paçin

Pages : 1951-1974

Doi:10.30783/nevsosbilen.1769633

View : 125 | Download : 344

Publication Date : 2025-12-30

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :The earthquakes that struck Kahramanmaraş on February 6, 2023, known as the “disaster of the century” and recorded as one of the most devastating natural disasters in Turkey’s recent history, not only caused massive loss of life and destruction but also left profound psychological and emotional scars on individuals and society. This study examines the post-disaster trauma, psychological resilience, and emotional healing processes through a narrative research approach. Using qualitative research methods, in-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with 11 participants selected through purposive and snowball sampling techniques. The participants’ pre-disaster, disaster-time, and post-disaster experiences were analyzed chronologically, focusing on resilience strategies, coping mechanisms, family and community support systems, as well as perceptions of insecurity and uncertainty. Findings reveal that despite their losses, survivors strengthened family bonds and emphasized the need for social solidarity, while feelings of fear, anxiety, and distrust remained persistent. The study highlights both individual and collective pathways to recovery, offers important insights for post-disaster psychosocial support policies, and underscores the unique contribution of narrative analysis to disaster studies.
Keywords : 6 Şubat Kahramanmaraş Depremi, Doğal Afet, Psikolojik Dayanıklılık, Duygusal İyileşme, Anlatı Araştırması.

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