SIGNIFICANT FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH THE MENTAL HEALTH OF EARTHQUAKE VICTIMS, CENTERED ON THE CASE OF SOUTH KOREA

Abstract

The earthquakes that broke out in Gyeongju City in September 2016 were very rare and the largest in size since the country started seismological observation. It has been reported that this disaster caused both physical and psychological problems for Gyeongju residents, and it is on the latter that this study focuses. This research aims to explore the various factors that impact on the psychological health of disaster victims, and suggest a preventive plan to help overcome negative emotional responses to it. 276 subjects were sampled out among the citizens in Gyeongju City who directly experienced the earthquake(s), and they were tested with the BSI-18 (Brief Symptom Inventory). The collected data was statistically analyzed for t-test, ANOVA, and multiple regression analysis to examine the effects of disaster experience upon mental health. The results demonstrated that age, resident type, the perceived seriousness of the disaster, participants’ expectations of the government’s response to the disaster, and satisfaction with life are variables impacting victim’s state of psychological health. Based on the finding, this study proposes preparation of a national crisis control system, regular case management, and making publicly available the government’s policy guidelines- along with the results of the disaster response evaluation- as ways to help the victims overcome significant negative emotional responses from disaster experience.