The Walking Backward Intervention Experienced by Students with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in Turkiye’s Earthquake

Abstract

The study aimed to investigate the therapeutic potential of walking backwards as a method for treating psychological trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder which may follow it . The research involved twelve students from different schools, focusing on the effects of the backward walking technique on mental imagery, sleep quality, and emotional health. The study used a qualitative methodology, with personal interviews with participants. Initially, participants had fearful mental images of earthquakes and compulsive repetition of these images. However, after using the technique, 50% reported more control over these images, and 91.66% felt that the frightening images had less effect on their mental state.
 The backward walking technique also improved sleep quality. Participants reported simpler sleep commencement, deep and prolonged sleep, and a significant increase in the quality of their sleep. Additionally, people who had trauma experienced negative emotions such as dread, poor social communication, melancholy, and rage. However, after using the technique, they reported increased satisfaction, interaction with others, happiness, and familiarity with their surroundings. The study is considered an original scientific contribution to the body of knowledge, as it demonstrates that trauma victims greatly benefit from the kinesthetic treatment of walking backward. This research highlights the importance of incorporating the backward walking technique in the treatment of psychological trauma.