Predictive Effects of Posttraumatic Cognitive Attribution and Coping Self-Efficacy on Post-Earthquake Trauma Levels Among Survivors of the 2023 Kahramanmaraş Earthquakes

Purpose: To examine the predictive effects of posttraumatic cognitive attribution and coping self-efficacy on post-earthquake trauma levels among earthquake survivors. Method: A descriptive and correlational study was conducted with 143 survivors of the Kahramanmaraş earthquakes living in a container city in Hatay, Türkiye. Data were collected using a personal information form, the Posttraumatic Cognitive Attribution Scale, Coping Self-Efficacy Scale, and Post-Earthquake Trauma Level Determination Scale. Results: Earthquake survivors had high levels of post-earthquake trauma, moderate levels of posttraumatic cognitive attribution, and above-average coping self-efficacy. Higher levels of posttraumatic cognitive attribution were associated with increased post-earthquake trauma. Higher levels of coping self-efficacy were associated with decreased post-earthquake trauma. Posttraumatic cognitive attribution and coping self-efficacy explained 25.3% of the total variance in post-earthquake trauma. Conclusion: Posttraumatic cognitive attribution positively and coping self-efficacy negatively predicted post-earthquake trauma. Findings demonstrate that psychosocial interventions should be implemented to reduce post-earthquake trauma and improve coping abilities among earthquake survivors.