A PHENOMENOLOGICAL INVESTIGATION OF EARTHQUAKE EXPERIENCES: THE CASE OF THE FEBRUARY 6, 2023 MARAŞ EARTHQUAKE

This study investigates the experiences of individuals who survived the Maraş earthquake on February 6, 2023, employing a phenomenological approach to examine the multifaceted effects of the disaster. Structured interviews were conducted with 16 participants (eight women and eight men) who relocated to Bolu temporarily or permanently following the earthquake. As one of Turkey's most catastrophic seismic events, it has resulted in significant physical destruction and profound psychological and social ramifications. The majority of survivors perceived the earthquake as a form of "punishment" or "warning," interpreting it through scientific, religious, and conspiratorial frameworks. They experienced intense fear, helplessness, guilt, and a sense of victimization, recounting the event as a combination of intense auditory stimuli, darkness, cold, and mortality. The earthquake significantly altered their perspective on life, leading to increased maturity, religiosity, and heightened awareness regarding the transience of existence. Social relationships were also affected by the earthquake, with some survivors withdrawing from relatives and close acquaintances, while others formed stronger interpersonal bonds. This study underscores the complex nature of the earthquake experience, emphasizing that survivors' needs extend beyond physical reconstruction to encompass psychological, social, and economic support. Limitations include the small sample size and the geographic focus on the province of Bolu. Future research should expand to larger, more diverse populations, and consider the long-term effects of such traumatic events. These findings are critical for developing effective post-earthquake interventions and support strategies that address the comprehensive needs of survivors.