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

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.