Post-traumatic growth caused by the Great East Japan Earthquake and response to coronavirus disease 2019

Abstract

The occurrence of human growth after a stressful experience, such as a disaster, is called post-traumatic growth (PTG). PTG has been confirmed among people affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake (GEJE). We hypothesised that people who experienced PTG during the GEJE would be able to better respond to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) compared to those who did not. This cross-sectional study conducted a survey via a posting method between 25 January and February 16, 2021. We randomly distributed questionnaires to 1800 residents of Fukushima and Miyagi prefectures aged 20–26 years. We included 582 participants who responded. PTG caused by the GEJE was significantly higher in the affected prefectures, especially among those who experienced the earthquake and tsunami. Furthermore, it was significantly associated with COVID-19-related responses, such as avoiding the three-Cs (i.e., closed spaces, crowded places, and close-contact settings), basic infection control, taking care of oneself under self-restraint, and getting enough rest and nutrition. This suggested that experiencing PTG may have enabled people affected by the GEJE to better respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, PTG was also associated with exclusive behaviours, although this association was weaker than that for other COVID-19-related responses. Hence, support for increased PTG during the post-disaster period was suggested.