A qualitative research on the affectedness of physical education teachers working in Malatya by the Kahramanmaraş centered earthquakes

This study, which aims to understand the life experiences of physical education teachers affected by the Kahramanmaraş Pazarcık and Elbistan earthquakes that occurred on February 6, 2023, one of the largest earthquakes of the century, utilizes a gender perspective. The focus of the research is to investigate the experiences of physical education teachers affected by the earthquake, both before, during, and after the event, as well as to examine the impact of gender roles within the social structure on the earthquake process. Interviews were conducted with participants residing in the districts of Yeşilyurt, Battalgazi, and Pütürge in Malatya, which were heavily affected by the earthquake and experienced significant loss of life. Participants were reached through the purposive sampling method, and 21 individuals (8 women and 13 men) between the ages of 25 and 54 were selected on a voluntary basis for face-to-face interviews. The sociological examination of disasters is crucial for analyzing the sociological contexts that emerge after such events. Earthquakes, which have numerous physical, psychological, social, and economic consequences, affect male and female teachers in different ways. The research reveals that female teachers, due to their profession and gender roles, are more vulnerable to the adverse effects of the disaster, as they function as a mother at school and as a housewife at home. However, they demonstrate a stronger reaction and contribute positively to the recovery process. On the other hand, male teachers, due to their professional roles, are found to be more resilient and steadfast in the face of the disaster, functioning as teachers at school and fathers at home, thanks to their gender roles. Another outcome of the research is that male teachers' responsibilities in maintaining family unity, providing household income, and ensuring security and shelter are more prominent due to their gender roles. Additionally, the fact that teachers, as public employees, receive regular salaries allows them to swiftly implement post-disaster action plans, helping to mitigate the psychosocial effects of the earthquake. It is believed that the protective, restorative, and leadership qualities inherent in physical education teachers' professions would contribute to the state's potential disaster policies and recovery efforts.