Early childhood stress and behavioural problems in children following the 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquake in Turkey

Abstract

This research aims to investigate the potential emotional stress and behavioural issues that may arise in children in the early aftermath of the Kahramanmara & scedil; earthquake in Turkey. This cross-sectional study was conducted with 447 parents of children aged 4-10 living in 11 provinces in Turkey affected by the Kahramanmara & scedil; earthquake. The data were collected using the Demographic Information Form, the Preschool Age Post-Traumatic Emotional Stress Scale, and the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire-Parent Version between March and July 2023. Multiple regression analysis was used to determine predictors of emotional stress and strengths and difficulties based on children's earthquake-related experiences. Among the children, 51.5% were male, and the mean age was 6.52 +/- 1.58. The results indicated a positive correlation between emotional stress and behavioral problems (r = 0.461, p < 0.001). Losing a family member, being injured in the earthquake, having injured family members, hospitalisation, family members hospitalisation, and home damage were identified as significant determinants of emotional stress and behavioural problems. This research provides valuable insights for tailoring interventions to children directly exposed to earthquakes. The full extent of the psychological damage caused by the earthquake that resulted in significant damage in Turkey has yet to be fully revealed. Similar studies conducted in the future will contribute to our understanding of the psychological consequences of the 2023 earthquake and aid in planning and implementing appropriate interventions for children.