Effect of Disaster Awareness Education on General Disaster Preparedness Beliefs: A Quasi-Experimental Study.

Abstract

Objective: This study examines the impact of a disaster awareness education program on general disaster preparedness beliefs in Türkiye, utilizing the Health Belief Model as a theoretical framework.

Methods: A quasi-experimental, single-group design with pre-test, post-test, and follow-up measurements was employed. Participants were enrolled in a Disaster Awareness Education course at a Public Education Center. Data were gathered using a demographic questionnaire and the General Disaster Preparedness Belief (GDPB) Scale. Repeated measures ANOVA was conducted to assess changes over time.

Results: Significant improvements were observed in perceived susceptibility, perceived severity, perceived barriers, cues to action, and self-efficacy following the intervention. While male participants showed no significant changes, female and middle-income participants experienced substantial improvements. Perceived susceptibility initially increased but reverted to baseline at follow-up. Perceived severity decreased and remained low, whereas perceived barriers declined post-education but were not sustained. Cues to action showed a steady increase, suggesting ongoing motivation. Self-efficacy improved significantly and was maintained over time.

Conclusions: Disaster education has a positive impact on general disaster preparedness beliefs. Tailored interventions may be especially beneficial for specific demographic groups such as males and lower-income individuals. It is recommended that future studies investigate the mechanisms underlying demographic disparities in educational impact, particularly among male and low-income participants.