The effect of disaster risk perceptions on disaster preparedness levels of students at a university in Turkey.

Abstract

Background: Disaster risk perception significantly influences individuals' preparedness behaviors, shaping how they respond to potential hazards. Understanding students' risk perceptions and preparedness levels is crucial for developing targeted educational programs that enhance resilience within university communities.

Methods: This study aimed to determine the effect of disaster risk perception of health services students on their disaster preparedness levels. This descriptive and correlational study was conducted between February and May 2024 with 403 students studying at a vocational school of health services of a university in Türkiye. The sample selection aimed to include the entire population. The study data were collected face-to-face using a descriptive characteristics form, the University Students' Disaster Risk Perception Scale, and the Disaster Preparedness Scale. The data were analyzed using SPSS software. Descriptive statistics including frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation were calculated. Additionally, correlation analysis, independent samples t-test, one-way ANOVA, and regression analysis were performed.

Results: The mean age of the students was 19.92 ± 1.32 years, and 60% were female. Among the students, 60.8% had experienced a disaster, and 91.8% of those who had experienced a disaster had experienced an earthquake. The percentage of students harmed by disasters was 41.9%. The mean score of the Disaster Risk Perception Scale was 2.80 ± 0.81, and the mean score of the Disaster Preparedness Scale was 29.73 ± 7.40, which was interpreted as moderate. A positive and statistically significant correlation was found between the disaster preparedness levels of the students and their disaster risk perception levels.

Conclusions: The students' disaster risk perception and preparedness scores were found to be at a moderate level, with a significant positive correlation between the two variables. In light of these findings, it is crucial to plan comprehensive awareness-raising trainings aimed at enhancing students' disaster risk perception and preparedness levels. Furthermore, it is recommended to extend disaster education beyond the health sciences fields to other faculties and departments as well. This approach will contribute to increasing disaster awareness among a broader student population and strengthening community resilience.