The relationship between earthquake preparedness, perceived earthquake risk, and anxiety among adults

ABSTRACTThis study aims to determine the relationship between earthquake preparedness, perceived earthquake risk, and anxiety among adults. This descriptive study was conducted with 286 individuals who participated in an online survey between May and August 2025. Data were collected using a questionnaire, which included the Earthquake Preparedness Behavior Scale, the Earthquake Risk Perception Scale, and the Earthquake Anxiety Scale. Descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation analysis were employed for data analysis. The mean total score of the Earthquake Preparedness Behavior Scale was 9.75±3.50, the mean total score of the Earthquake Risk Perception Scale was 27.60±3.38, and the mean total score of the Earthquake Anxiety Scale was 27.60±3.38. A statistically significant positive correlation was found between the total score of the Earthquake Preparedness Behavior Scale and the total scores of both the Earthquake Risk Perception Scale and the Earthquake Anxiety Scale (p<0.001). The findings of this study indicate a significant positive relationship between earthquake preparedness behavior, risk perception, and earthquake anxiety levels. This suggests that risk perception and anxiety are important factors influencing individuals’ level of earthquake preparedness.