The Relationship Between Natural Disaster Anxiety and Prenatal Attachment in Pregnant Women

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to explore the relationship between disaster anxiety and prenatal attachment in pregnant women. Method: A descriptive, cross-sectional design was used with 443 pregnant women recruited between April and August 2023. Data were collected using the Demographic Data Form, Disaster Anxiety Scale, and Prenatal Attachment Inventory. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS 29.0. Results: The mean Disaster Anxiety Scale score was 11.87 ± 7.49, and the mean Prenatal Attachment Inventory score was 64.93 ± 9.16. Disaster anxiety increased with maternal age, extended family living, and higher numbers of pregnancies and children, while prenatal attachment decreased in these groups. No significant correlation was found between disaster anxiety and prenatal attachment. Conclusion: The findings suggest that maternal age, family structure, and parity influence disaster anxiety and prenatal attachment levels. Healthcare providers should develop targeted interventions to reduce disaster anxiety and enhance prenatal attachment, particularly for high-risk groups such as older mothers or those with larger families. © 2025 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.