Earthquake preparedness in the context of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs theory and the risk perception paradox: the role of socioeconomic inequalities in Türkiye

BACKGROUND: Earthquake preparedness in Türkiye is widely promoted through national awareness campaigns; however, household-level preparedness remains limited. Drawing on Maslow's hierarchy of needs and the Risk Perception Paradox, this study examines how socioeconomic inequalities are associated with earthquake preparedness self-efficacy, preparedness behaviors, and perceived barriers and motivations at the household level. METHODS: The research universe was defined using the Türkiye Earthquake Hazard Map by identifying 325 districts located in high-hazard zones (≥ 0.4 g at DD-2 design value, 475-year return period). A 19-item structured questionnaire was developed and administered online between May and September 2025, yielding responses from 1,193 households across high-risk districts. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, cross-tabulations, and chi-square tests (p < 0.05). RESULTS: The findings indicate high earthquake salience: 80.9% of respondents reported prior earthquake experience and 93.1% perceived local earthquake risk. However, only 19.3% considered themselves sufficiently prepared, while 47.9% reported being partially prepared. Perceived constraints were substantial: 89.7% reported insufficient financial resources, 83.8% insufficient time, and 69.2% concerns about sustaining daily life. Preparedness self-efficacy was significantly associated with gender, age, and monthly household income. Training participation was also significantly associated with higher self-perceived preparedness, while homeownership was associated with greater knowledge of building earthquake resistance. CONCLUSIONS: Household earthquake preparedness in Türkiye appears to be constrained not only by awareness deficits but also by socioeconomic inequalities related to time, financial resources, and housing security. These findings suggest that awareness campaigns should be complemented by targeted education, financial support mechanisms, tenant-inclusive housing safety measures, and community-based preparedness practices.