The impact of the disaster on the residents of the city of Derna, Libya, psychologically, behaviorally, and intellectually

Abstract

"The current research aims to determine whether disasters have an impact on the residents of the city of Derna in Libya psychologically, behaviorally, and intellectually. It also aims to investigate whether there are differences in the psychological, behavioral, and intellectual impact of disasters based on variables such as gender, age, extent of material damage, loss of a family member, and place of residence. The researcher followed a descriptive-analytical approach, and to achieve the research objectives, the researcher used two tools for collecting information and data: interviews and observations. The research community consisted of all residents of the city of Derna in eastern Libya, totaling 175,297. The sample consisted of 411 individuals, including 231 males and 180 females, selected using non-random sampling methods (purposive, quota, and accidental). The researcher arrived at a number of results, the most important being that disasters have psychological, behavioral, and intellectual effects that are evident among the research sample, such as acute psychological depression, aggressive behaviors, and difficulty in thinking. Additionally, there were differences between males and females in their response to disasters in favor of females due to the nature of females being emotionally sensitive and physically weaker. Furthermore, differences were also found among the research sample in the impact of disasters based on age, with children being more affected and more prone to behavioral disorders and psychological diseases, followed by the elderly over 60 years old. The rest of the age groups were less affected compared to children and the elderly. The research results also indicated that those who lost one or more family members and had their homes and properties damaged were more affected and sadder compared to other sample individuals whose properties were not damaged and who did not lose anyone. Finally, the results showed differences in the impact of disasters on the residents of the city of Derna in Libya psychologically, behaviorally, and intellectually based on their place of residence. The impact was greater on those living in the city center and on Sea Street because they suffered greater damage compared to those living in the east and west of the city.