Examining the role of earthquake experience in shaping risk perception and knowledge: Evidence from an earthquake-prone city in Iran

This study aims to investigate how previous earthquake experience shape risk perception and knowledge among inhabitants who live in an active seismogenic region in order to identify the primary socio-demographic determinants and to provide targeted interventions to enhance community resilience and efficient preparation against disasters. A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among 2019 adult residents of Tabriz using multi-stage cluster sampling. Data were collected through a validated questionnaire assessing socio-demographic characteristics, earthquake knowledge, and risk perception components. Individuals with prior earthquake experience showed significantly higher perceived threat (mean: 58.0 vs.55.8) and preparedness knowledge (mean:61.2 vs.52.2) compared to those without experience. Prior earthquake experience nearly doubled the odds of having adequate earthquake knowledge (AOR = 1.92) and higher risk perception (AOR = 1.87). Among those without experience, knowledge was strongly linked to middle age, income stability, and general health, while in the experienced group, higher education was the dominant factor (odds rising up to 24 times with a master's degree or above), followed by male gender. Risk perception was consistently higher among younger people and males in both groups, with advanced education further increasing it among the experienced. In Iran, prior earthquake experience nearly doubles both knowledge and risk perception, emerging as the most powerful predictor. • Earthquake experience significantly increases perceived threat and preparedness knowledge among Tabriz residents. • Response efficacy and geological knowledge are the most emphasized components of earthquake awareness in both experienced and non-experienced groups. • Knowledge is mainly predicted by middle age and sufficient income in non-experienced individuals, and by higher education and male gender in the experienced group. • Risk perception is enhanced by male gender, younger age, and education, with experience amplifying these effects toward greater earthquake resilience.