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Impact of Earthquakes on Children with Autism: Insights from Teachers' Observations and Experiences Post-Disaster

  • By

  • Mehmet Akif Kay

  • Osman Tayyar Çelik

  • Muhammed Abdulbaki Karaca

  • Özlem Aslan-Bağcı

  • August 20, 2026

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  • 1

    The study investigates behavioral, emotional, and academic changes in children with autism after the February 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquakes.

  • 2

    Twenty-two special education teachers from severely impacted provinces reported increased problematic behaviors and emotional fatigue in children with ASD.

  • 3

    Teachers noted declines in academic abilities and learning challenges, linked to displacement and disrupted educational access post-earthquake.

  • 4

    Inadequate educational settings and environmental factors were identified as barriers to recovery for children with ASD following the disaster.

  • 5

    The findings highlight the need for trauma-informed, holistic support services for children with ASD to aid in their recovery and educational continuity.

Original Source(s)

The effects of earthquakes on children with autism: teachers’ post-earthquake observations and experiences

  • by Mehmet Akif Kay, Osman Tayyar Çelik, Muhammed Abdulbaki Karaca, Özlem Aslan-Bağcı

  • August 20, 2026

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