Group Work for Earthquake Survivors: A Randomized Controlled Trial Transforming Crisis into Hope

ÖZMETE E., SERPEN A. S., Gök F. A., ÖZDEMİR A., KALAYCI E., DURU S.

Research on Social Work Practice, vol.35, no.4, pp.432-442, 2025 (SSCI, Scopus) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 35 Issue: 4
  • Publication Date: 2025
  • Doi Number: 10.1177/10497315251325253
  • Journal Name: Research on Social Work Practice
  • Journal Indexes: Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI), Scopus, Academic Search Premier, ASSIA, Child Development & Adolescent Studies, CINAHL, EBSCO Education Source, Education Abstracts, ERIC (Education Resources Information Center), Psycinfo, Public Affairs Index, Social services abstracts, Sociological abstracts, Violence & Abuse Abstracts
  • Page Numbers: pp.432-442
  • Keywords: earthquake, existential crisis, natural disaster, Social group work
  • Yozgat Bozok University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Purpose: The research aimed to explore the emotions and thoughts of earthquake victims, assess existential crises, and identify their coping resources. Methods: It involved seven sessions with separate groups of women, men, and adolescents, comprising 42 individuals aged 15–65. The Existential Anger, Psychological Well-being, and Life Purpose scales were used. Results: Results showed that life purpose scores increased for adolescents and men after the study, while existential anger scores for all groups were significantly higher post-study. Conclusions: Group sessions led to decreased existential anger and improved psychological well-being across men, women, and adolescents. Survivors gained skills for managing existential crises and coping with stress and anxiety, leading to enhanced functionality.