Examination of Post-Traumatic Stress Reaction, Quality of Life, and Loneliness Levels in Adolescents Who Experienced an Earthquake

Abstract The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between post-traumatic stress, quality of life, and loneliness levels in adolescents following the earthquakes centered in Kahramanmaraş. The research, designed as descriptive and correlational, was conducted with 701 children aged 13–18 who experienced the earthquake in Kahramanmaraş. Data were collected through a Demographic Information Form, the Child Post-Traumatic Stress Reaction Index, the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory, and the UCLA Loneliness Scale-Short Form. Ethical principles were adhered to throughout the study. Female adolescents were found to have higher levels of post-traumatic stress ( t = 3.508, p < 0.001) and lower quality of life ( t = 4.223, p < 0.001). The adolescents exhibited severe levels of post-traumatic stress (55.25 ± 13.80). It was determined that the mother’s education level ( F = 4.423, p = 0.002), the father’s occupation ( F = 2.859, p = 0.036), and perceived income level ( F = 5.912, p = 0.003) significantly influenced adolescents’ loneliness levels. The father’s occupation ( F = 3.403, p = 0.017) was found to have a significant effect on post-traumatic stress levels, and perceived income level ( F = 4.753, p = 0.009) had a significant effect on quality of life. A moderate negative correlation was found between post-traumatic stress levels and quality of life ( r = −0.474, p < 0.001), and a weak positive correlation was observed between post-traumatic stress and loneliness levels ( r = 0.215, p < 0.001). A weak negative correlation was also found between quality of life and loneliness levels ( r = −0.284, p < 0.001). A moderate negative correlation was found between adolescents’ post-traumatic stress levels and quality of life, while a weak positive correlation was observed between post-traumatic stress levels and loneliness. It is recommended to provide psychological support and guidance services aimed at reducing post-traumatic stress and loneliness levels in adolescents.