Examining the relationship between psychological resilience, post-traumatic growth, and post-traumatic stress disorder in individuals with traumatic experiences following the February 6 earthquake

The primary objective of this investigation is to explore the association among Psychological Resilience, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and Post-Traumatic Growth in individuals who underwent trauma following the earthquakes in Kahramanmaraş. Utilizing a quantitative approach, a correlational survey model was applied. The study encompassed a total of 213 participants impacted by the earthquake, comprising 144 females and 69 males. Data were gathered through online and face-to-face methods, employing a researcher-developed personal information form, the Psychological Resilience Scale for Adults, the Post-Traumatic Growth Scale, and the Post-Traumatic Stress Symptoms Scale. The collected data has been analyzed using the SPSS-27 software. As per the examination of the research data, individuals diagnosed with moderate and mild post-traumatic stress exhibit a significantly higher mean score on the Short Psychological Resilience Scale compared to those with a severe post-traumatic stress diagnosis. Additionally, a positive and very weak significant correlation was observed between the Post-Traumatic Stress Diagnosis Scale and the Post-Traumatic Growth Scale. Similarly, a similar positive and very weak significant relationship was identified between the Short Psychological Resilience Scale and the Post-Traumatic Growth Scale. In conclusion, this study sheds light on the nuanced connections between psychological resilience, post-traumatic stress disorder, and post-traumatic growth in individuals affected by earthquakes in Kahramanmaraş. The findings underscore the importance of assessing psychological resilience in the context of trauma and its potential impact on post-traumatic growth and stress responses.