Earthquake Aftershock Anxiety: An Examination of Psychosocial Contributing Factors and Symptomatic Outcomes

ABSTRACT

This study examined the direct and indirect effects of cognitions and anxiety associated with aftershocks on psychological symptoms (anxiety, depression, acute stress) and daily functioning (general and relationship). Participants were 600 adults from Christchurch, New Zealand. Data collection was approximately four months after the fatal 2011 earthquake. Path analysis was used for modelling. Socioeconomic status was directly associated with appraisals of uncontrollability of response to aftershocks. These cognitions were directly related to aftershock anxiety, which heightened general anxiety, depression, and acute stress symptoms. These symptoms were directly associated with relationship and general life dysfunction. Aftershock anxiety plays a significant role in ongoing psychological distress associated with earthquakes.

KEYWORDS:

• Acute stress
• aftershocks
• anxiety
• depression
• earthquake

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Martin J. Dorahy

Martin Dorahy, PhD, is associate professor in the Department of Psychology, University of Canterbury. He has a research and clinical interest in the impact of traumatic stress on cognitive, affective, and relational functioning.

Charlotte Renouf

Charlotte Renouf, PG Dip Clin Psych, is a clinical psychologist working with the Canterbury District Health Board, treating patients with severe anxiety disorders, including those struggling with posttraumatic stress and adjustments disorders related to the Canterbury earthquake sequence.

Amy Rowlands

Amy Rowlands, MSc Psych, is working for a mental health organization supporting people with their recovery, and those dealing with the aftermath of the Canterbury earthquakes.

Donncha Hanna

Donncha Hanna, PhD, is a lecturer and research coordinator in the School of Psychology, Queens University of Belfast. His research interests include the measurement and modeling of psychological trauma, anxiety disorders, and related constructs.

Eileen Britt

Eileen Britt, PhD, is senior lecturer in the Department of Psychology, University of Canterbury. She has research interests in a variety of clinical areas including traumatic stress, and research and clinical interests in motivational interviewing.

Janet D. Carter

Janet Carter, PhD, is an associate professor in the Department of Psychology at the University of Canterbury. Her research and clinical focus is on adult mental health problems, particularly anxiety, depression, and eating disorders.