“I Loved this earthquake” - Rupture Transitions After Earthquake: Life Course Approach

This study examines the experiences of rupture transitions following the catastrophic earthquakes that struck Turkey on the 6th of February 2023, through the lens of Life Course Theory and Rupture Transitions Model. Using a qualitative case study method, the research analyzes the narrative of a participant who experienced the earthquake in the epicenter, Sema (pseudonym), 15 months after the earthquake. The findings reveal that the disaster triggered significant ruptures, including financial problems, loss of home, moving to a new city and dealing with the death of others. The transitions of these ruptures were influenced by Sema’s prior life events, sociocultural environment, and personal agency, demonstrating the intricate interplay of individual and contextual factors in navigating disruptive life changes. This study contributes to understanding the psychological and sociocultural dynamics of coping with extreme stressors, offering a nuanced view of the interconnectedness between life course trajectories, rupture transitions, and agency.