Examining the relationship between post-traumatic growth and engaged living among university students who experienced the February 2023 earthquakes in relation to their earthquake experiences

This study examines the relationship between Post-Traumatic Growth (PTG) and Engaged Living among university students who experienced the February 2023 earthquakes, as well as whether these variables differ according to earthquake-related experiences. The sample consisted of 320 university students, and data were collected using a Personal Information Form, the Post-Traumatic Growth Inventory, and the Engaged Living Scale. Findings revealed a moderately strong, positive, and significant correlation between PTG and engaged living. Significant associations were also found between PTG subdimensions (Change in Self-Perception, Change in Life Philosophy, and Change in Relationships) and engaged living. Similarly, the subdimensions of the Engaged Living Scale, Valued Living and Life Satisfaction, were significantly associated with PTG. A simple linear regression analysis showed that engaged living significantly predicted PTG. The regression model was statistically significant, indicating that engaged living explained 25.4% of the total variance in PTG. These findings suggest that a value-oriented lifestyle may support the post-traumatic rebuilding process. Additionally, women scored significantly higher than men in the "Change in Relationships" subdimension. No significant differences were found in PTG and Engaged Living levels based on variables such as bereavement, physical injury, or home damage. Findings regarding accommodation status revealed no significant differences in posttraumatic growth scores across groups. However, a significant difference was observed in Engaged Living scores; participants residing in containers reported lower scores compared to those who were able to stay in their homes. Additionally, a significant difference was found in the Life Satisfaction subdimension, although the specific group differences could not be statistically identified. According to Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), such a value-based lifestyle enables individuals to maintain functionality and a sense of meaning despite emotional distress. Therefore, it is recommended that value-oriented interventions be integrated into post-disaster psychological support programs.