Correlates of earthquake cognitions and preparedness behavior in a victimized population

A survey of earthquake victims in Erzincan (a town in Eastern Anatolia, Tur key) was conducted 16 months after a major earthquake to explore the relati ons of earthquake-related cognitions and preparedness behavior to a set of personal, residential, experiential, and affect variables. Data from a samp le of 461 adults representing different households indicated that earthquak e expectations and preparedness could be predicted by fear, perceived contr ol, and educational background. Results also indicated that damage anticipa tion was related to height and perceived strength of residence as well as t o perceived control and trust in officials. Severity of past experience did not appear to have the predicted effect on quake cognitions and preparedne ss.