Journal of University Studies

Journal of University Studies

A multidimensional analysis of life satisfaction among Iranian students

Document Type : Original Research Paper

Author
Assistant Professor, Institute for Cultural and Social Studies, Tehran, Iran
Abstract
Quality of life, particularly for young people and students, is significantly influenced by life satisfaction, which serves as a crucial indicator of mental and social well-being. Research has demonstrated that life satisfaction is affected by various factors, including familial connections, psychological aspects, economic conditions, and social interactions. However, there has been limited research simultaneously examining these factors among Iranian students. This research sought to evaluate the impact of these variables on student life satisfaction and compare it with non-student youth through a secondary analysis of data from the National Survey of Youth Values, Attitudes, and Behaviors (2024). The study population comprised all individuals in the national survey sample who self-identified as students during data collection. Data analysis involved using independent t-tests to compare means between student and non-student groups, and linear regression modeling to explore relationships among variables. T-test results revealed that students' average life satisfaction (3.56) was notably higher than non-students' (3.47), although the effect size of this difference was minimal. Regression analysis indicated that family relationships, psychological factors, economic status, and social relationships collectively explained 32.6% of the variance in life satisfaction. Family relationships emerged as the strongest predictor, while social relationships had the least impact. These findings underscore the multifaceted nature of life satisfaction among Iranian students and suggest that enhancing family relationships and bolstering psychological factors could be key strategies for promoting youth well-being. At the policy level, recommendations include strengthening family support programs, expanding psychological services in universities, and creating targeted economic opportunities for students.
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Volume 2, Issue 2 - Serial Number 6
Winter 2024
Winter 2024
Pages 5-252

  • Receive Date 07 October 2023
  • Revise Date 14 December 2023
  • Accept Date 15 March 2024