Coping Self-Efficacy for Trauma as a Predictor of Post-Traumatic Growth and Traumatic Grief Among Earthquake Survivors Who Experienced Disaster-Related Loss

Purpose: Coping self-efficacy for trauma is recognized as an important psychological resource in post-traumatic adjustment, yet its role in individuals bereaved by disasters remains understudied. This study examined the predictive associations of self-efficacy with post-traumatic growth and traumatic grief in individuals who lost a close relative in the 2023 Türkiye earthquakes.Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted between March 15 and May 15, 2025. The sample comprised 413 adults who had experienced the February 6, 2023 earthquakes and lost at least one close relative. Data were collected online using a personal information form, the Coping Self-Efficacy for Trauma Scale, the Traumatic Grief Inventory, and the Posttraumatic Growth Scale–Short Form. Descriptive statistics, t-tests, one-way ANOVA, Pearson correlation, and multiple regression analyses were performed. Perceived income, number of disaster-related losses, and post-earthquake relocation served as covariates.Results: After covariate adjustment, coping self-efficacy for trauma positively predicted post-traumatic growth (β = +.459, R² = .256) and negatively predicted traumatic grief (β = −.298, R² = .158, both p < .001). A significant positive association between post-traumatic growth and traumatic grief persisted after adjustment for covariates (r = .365, p < .001). The model accounted for approximately 26% of the variance in post-traumatic growth and 16% of the variance in traumatic grief.Conclusion: The findings indicate that coping self-efficacy for trauma is associated with lower traumatic grief and greater post-traumatic growth in earthquake-bereaved individuals. Self-efficacy represents a potential intervention target in psychosocial support programs for earthquake survivors.