Original Research Article
Year: 2019 | Month: April | Volume: 9 | Issue: 4 | Pages: 322-331
Risk Factors of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder That Arises From an Earthquake Disaster
Priyaranjan Maral
Research Scholar (PhD), Department of Psychology, University of Allahabad, Prayagraj-211002
ABSTRACT
This study aimed to investigate the risk factors for the development of PTSD that arises from a catastrophic event such as an earthquake disaster. For a systematic literature review, research studies selection and evaluation were done with respect to the posttraumatic stress disorder, earthquake disaster and associated risk factors. Studies were searched out with the help of MEDLINE, PUBMED, BMC, ELSEVIER, WILEY, JAP, and GOOGLE SCHOLAR. Findings showed that the major risk factors associated for the development of PTSD in people who confronted earthquake disaster were gender (female), age, previous histories of psychiatric problems, loss of beloved one, substance abuse, disabilities, comorbidity, prior experiences of traumatic events, poverty, and lack of intervention programs for affected people. The major psychological problem which developedaftermath of an earthquake disaster was PTSD. PTSD persisted for a longer period if it was left untreated after an event. There were several risk factors which were responsible for the development of PTSD but the major factor that increased the probability of getting PTSD was comorbidity. Through proper intervention programs and on time diagnosis can minimize the chances of getting PTSD among earthquake survivors.
Key words: Earthquake, Natural Disaster, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder