A Qualitative Study on Exploring the Psycho-Social and Economic Impacts of the February 6, 2023, Kahramanmaraş-Centred Earthquakes

The earthquakes centred in Kahramanmara & scedil; on February 6, 2023, are among the most devastating in recent years. These earthquakes, which claimed the lives of over 50 thousand people, injured more than 100 thousand and left millions homeless, are the most severe and loss-heavy earthquakes in the history of the Republic of Turkiye. This study aims to shed light on the experiences of earthquake survivors directly affected by these earthquakes, both during and after the events, and to investigate their problems. The study employs the phenomenological approach, one of the qualitative research designs. The research group comprises 36 individuals, and data were collected through a semistructured interview. The findings are categorised under three main themes: the challenges faced after the earthquake, the psychosocial impacts of the earthquake, and the shortcomings of our country in addressing earthquake-related issues. Participants reported significant difficulties in accessing many basic needs, notably shelter, in the aftermath of the earthquake. As a result, the participants stated that after the earthquake, they moved away from the social environment and became lonely, that the earthquake left deep scars and thought these scars would not be erased for many years.