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- A Review on the Relationship Between Trauma and Religiosity
Authors: Saliha Oktar
Abstract: Turkish Turkish society has undergone numerous large-scale social traumas—ranging from wars and military coups to economic crises, earthquakes, and pandemics—particularly since the early 20th century. Despite historical efforts toward secularization, a significant portion of the population remains religious. Both traditionally religious and modern secular societies tend to turn to religion when confronted with collective traumatic events. This study aims to explore the relationship between trauma and religiosity, as well as the role of religiosity in coping with trauma, through a comprehensive review of the relevant literature. The findings suggest that traumatic events, especially those caused by natural or non-human forces, elicit feelings of helplessness and a loss of control, prompting individuals to seek meaning and turn to a higher power, namely God, for comfort and support. Conversely, individuals exposed to human-induced trauma—such as abuse, violence, or neglect—tend to experience more intense feelings of anger, guilt, and despair. These individuals are more likely to question or reject their faith, perceiving God as unjust. A growing body of research indicates that religiosity plays a beneficial role in the recovery process following trauma. Religious individuals demonstrate higher levels of post-traumatic growth, a form of positive psychological development following adversity. This growth is often facilitated by increased psychological resilience and the use of religious coping strategies. In a broader sense, the experience of suffering and hardship is believed to contribute to personal maturity, aligning with religious ideals of moral and spiritual development. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a common negative outcome of trauma, appears to be less prevalent among those who are religious. However, individuals who perceive God as punitive, distant, or fear-inducing, and who rely on negative religious coping mechanisms, tend to report more severe PTSD symptoms. Interestingly, those diagnosed with PTSD are significantly more likely to experience changes in their religious beliefs compared to those who are not.Keywords: Trauma, Post-Traumatic Growth, Post-Traumatic Stress, Religiosity, Religion
- Criteria for Choosing Texts in Turkish Listening Tests: An Analytical
Study
Authors: Kamil Saçan; Talat Aytan
Abstract: Listening, Listening, one of the four fundamental language skills, forms the basis of both understanding and communication. It plays a vital role in individuals’ ability to build effective social interactions and succeed in their educational pursuits. In recent years, the importance of listening skills has gained wider recognition, becoming an essential part of language education. The inclusion of listening activities and their evaluation in school curricula by the Ministry of National Education represents a significant step toward addressing gaps in this area. According to the regulation published in the Official Gazette No. 32304 on September 9, 2023, listening exams have become a mandatory component of Turkish language courses and now constitute 25% of students' overall grades. As a result, listening exams have been implemented across all middle schools. This study aims to identify the key criteria to be considered when selecting texts for listening exams in Turkish lessons. Employing a case study design, a qualitative research method, data were collected through the opinions of teachers and students. The data were analyzed using content analysis, and the findings were categorized with codes. The results indicate that the most important criteria in selecting listening texts include their suitability to students’ proficiency levels, alignment with educational objectives, content characteristics, technical and audio quality, and compatibility with the exam format. Additionally, it was found that the texts should match students’ vocabulary knowledge and interests while supporting their level of comprehension. It is hoped that the findings of this research will guide and enrich the process of selecting texts for listening assessments in language education.
- The Symbolism of Donkey Images in Francisco Goya’s Los Caprichos Series:
A Reflection on Social Alienation
Authors: Yakup Dursun
Abstract: The concept of intellectual alienation refers to the erosion of critical thinking and the suppression of individual and collective consciousness. Throughout history, this process has been systematically implemented through ideological, cultural, and political mechanisms, leading to the marginalization of individuals and societies, distancing them from their identities and fundamental rights. In 18th-century Spain, this phenomenon was particularly evident due to the rigid control of the Inquisition and the suppression of education and free thought. The public's access to knowledge was systematically restricted, fostering a passive and obedient society. This environment created a broader dynamic of intellectual and social subjugation. Spanish painter and engraver Francisco Goya (1746–1828) critically depicted this process in his Los Caprichos series, using donkey imagery as a powerful symbol of ignorance, blind obedience, and social manipulation. This study examines the meaning of donkey images in eight engravings from Los Caprichos, analyzing their role in exposing the socio-political realities of the period. By adopting a phenomenological perspective, this research integrates findings from literature and thematic analysis. The literature review includes sources on the socio-political climate of the time, Goya’s artistic vision, and the symbolic meanings of donkey imagery. Visual data were obtained through an in-depth iconographic and thematic analysis of the selected engravings. The thematic analysis categorizes the donkey images based on key recurring themes and interprets their relevance within the historical and cultural context. Findings suggest that Goya’s use of donkey imagery serves as a sharp critique of the intellectual and social manipulation present in Spain during his time. Furthermore, these visual metaphors resonate beyond their historical context, reflecting patterns of ideological control that have surfaced in various societies, including Turkey.
- Exploring Emerging Digital-Age Fears Linked to the Internet and Social
Media
Authors: Elif Şeyda Doğan; Uğur Gündüz
Abstract: In the digital age, the internet and social media platforms have significantly transformed many aspects of life, including communication, daily routines, self-perception, and lifestyles. This study examines how individuals engage with these platforms, highlighting the fears and negative consequences associated with their use. Social media use has been linked to psychosocial effects such as FoMO (Fear of Missing Out), addiction, jealousy, feelings of inadequacy, and social exclusion. Additionally, the darker side of social media—referred to as DoSM (Dark Side of Social Media)—includes issues like cyberbullying, privacy violations, misinformation, and its role as a stressor, as described in the Stressor-Strain-Outcomes model. These factors contribute to rising contemporary fears and anxieties. The study also focuses on problematic internet use, a major issue in Türkiye, and addresses the psychological and physical consequences of social media engagement. In conclusion, while social media offers benefits such as facilitating communication and access to information, excessive use can lead to significant psychosocial and physical problems. This study highlights how social media addiction and the emerging anxieties of the digital age impact individuals’ quality of life, emphasizing the importance of conscious and balanced digital usage strategies.
- An Analysis of Emotion Regulation Skills in Picture Storybooks Published
in Türkiye
Authors: Demet Arslan Başdağ; H. Elif Dağlıoğlu
Abstract: This study examines the extent to which and how the stages of emotion regulation skills are represented in picture storybooks published in Türkiye for children aged 3-6. These stages include recognizing and understanding emotions, discussing emotions, learning the consequences of emotional states, experiencing emotions, applying strategies to regulate emotions when necessary, and modifying emotional states. The study employed document analysis, a qualitative research method. Using criterion sampling, 20 books written for children aged 3-6, published between 2012 and 2022, and containing elements of emotion regulation skills were analyzed. Data were collected using the "Book Analysis Form," developed by the researchers, which evaluates how these stages are presented in both textual and visual components of the books. Data analysis was conducted through document analysis. The findings revealed that the books incorporated aspects of emotion regulation skills in both textual and visual elements. The most frequently addressed stages were recognizing and understanding emotions and strategies for modifying emotions, while learning the consequences of emotional states was the least represented. Each stage of emotion regulation builds upon the previous one, helping children develop these skills progressively. To enhance the understanding and application of these skills, future experimental studies using picture storybooks on emotion regulation are recommended.
- The Relationship Between Adolescents' Social Media Addiction and Happiness
Levels: The Role of Responsibility, Behavior, and Social-Emotional
Learning
Authors: Fulya Yuksel-şahin; Melis Akdemir Altinsoy
Abstract: Social media plays a significant role in the socialization process and is widely used by adolescents. Happiness is a key indicator of mental well-being, and adolescents’ life satisfaction contributes positively to their overall happiness. This study aims to examine the relationship between social media addiction and happiness levels in adolescents, considering their sense of responsibility, behavior, and social-emotional learning. The research follows a cross-sectional survey design with a descriptive approach. The study sample consists of 505 volunteer adolescents from private and public secondary schools in Istanbul. Data were collected using four validated instruments: the Responsibility Feeling-Behavior Scale, the Social-Emotional Learning Scale, the Social Media Addiction Scale for Adolescents, and the Happiness Scale. MANOVA with Pillai’s Trace Test was used for data analysis, and eta squared values were calculated to assess effect sizes. Findings indicate that adolescents with higher levels of responsibility and social-emotional learning exhibit lower social media addiction and higher happiness levels. The results are discussed in detail, and recommendations are provided.
- Exploring the Relationship Between Screen Addiction and Social Skills in
4-to-11-Year-Old Children in Turkey
Authors: Kübra Temiz Arslan; Sevim Altıok, Şaziye Senem Başgül
Abstract: As screen usage increasingly affects children's social skills, this study aims to explore the relationship between screen addiction and social skills in children aged 4 to 11. The study sample includes 408 children (201 girls and 207 boys) selected through convenience sampling, with an average age of 7.73 years. Data were collected using the Demographic Information Form, the Problematic Media Use Scale, and the Social Skills Assessment Scale. A t-test was applied to compare two groups, while ANOVA was used for multiple group comparisons. The Pearson Correlation test assessed relationships between variables, and Multiple Linear Regression analyzed the effects of independent variables on the dependent variable. A significance level of p<0.05 was used. Results showed that boys had higher levels of screen addiction than girls, whereas girls exhibited stronger social skills. Additionally, a significant negative correlation was found between screen addiction and social skills.
- The History of Silver and Design Proposals for Sportswear with
Electromagnetic Protection Using Silver-Infused Textiles
Authors: Hande Bilvar
Abstract: This article aims to comprehensively examine the historical development of silver-containing textiles and their use in functional textiles in the modern era. The research focuses on the multifunctional properties of silver, including its antimicrobial characteristics, electrical conductivity, and protection against electromagnetic radiation. Among these features, innovative proposals are presented on how electromagnetic shielding can be applied in clothing and accessories designed for athletes. A thorough literature review has been conducted, ranging from the historical origins of silver to its modern textile applications. The study adopts an interdisciplinary approach, drawing from fields such as materials science, chemistry, biotechnology, and engineering. The research investigates the historical use of silver in health, hygiene, sports, military, and technological applications, highlighting its current position in the textile industry and its role in contemporary developments. Ultimately, the use of silver in functional textiles plays a significant role in enhancing the performance of textile products by offering features that improve user comfort and safety. In the final section of the article, design proposals are presented for clothing intended for athletes, aiming to protect against the harmful effects of electromagnetic waves using silver fabrics. These proposals seek to maximize the electrical and electromagnetic shielding properties of silver and provide a comprehensive overview of how these attributes can be integrated into the design and production processes of functional textiles. This study aims to establish a foundation for future research, development, and design strategies in the field of silver-containing textiles.
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