Caregivers of Parentally Bereaved Children in the Earthquake: Qualitative Study

Abstract

In February 2023, two earthquakes measuring 7.8 and 7.5 on the Richter scale struck southeastern Türkiye. Thousands of people have lost their lives, and tens of thousands have been injured. Following the earthquake, the care of parentally bereaved children became a critical issue. This study aimed to investigate the experiences, coping mechanisms, and needs of caregivers of parentally bereaved children due to the earthquake. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis and examined under four main themes: (1) Experiencing the Earthquake, (2) Caregiving and Parenting, (3) Psychological Challenges, and (4) Social Challenges. Caregivers of parentally bereaved children had to grapple with their own grief while also dealing with various problems and needs of the children. At the same time, they had to adapt quickly to the changing family structure and new parental roles. In conclusion, this study provides an in-depth understanding of how caregivers of parentally bereaved children experienced this complex and challenging period.