Children’s Experiences of Death Due to Earthquakes,Children’s Physical Problems,and Psychological/Mental Effects: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

This study aimed to explain the difficult process and fear of death experienced by children due to the earthquake. In this phenomenological type of study, face-to-face interviews were conducted with 20 children who experienced the earthquake. Data were collected using with a semi-structured interview schedule. It was determined that the majority of the children were between 11-14 years old (n = 12), were girls (n = 12), had 3 or 4 siblings (n = 16), had never experienced an earthquake before (n = 20), had lost a relative in the earthquake (n = 15), had lost their homes in the earthquake (n = 12), had not been trapped under rubble (n = 15), reported experiencing nutritional problems (n = 12), reported lack of access to clean drinking water (n = 14), reported experiencing hygiene problems after the earthquake (n = 16), and reported experiencing nutritional problems after the earthquake (n = 16). Previously, their economic situation was balanced in terms of income and expenses; however, now 20 mothers and 12 fathers were unemployed. Also, it was found three main headings: children’s physical problems, psychological/mental impacts, and experiences of death. It was found that children faced death due to the earthquake and experienced psychological problems as a result of this fear. Furthermore, serious problems with nutrition, hygiene, and shelter were also identified. Given that the problems arising after the earthquake can cause lasting issues for children, especially mental health problems, it is recommended that long-term planning be undertaken to address these issues, that children be monitored, and that projects be planned to empower these children in order to support them in leading more comfortable lives in the future.