The Impact of Bullying on Happiness at Primary School: The Role of Socio-Demographic and Behavioral Variables

İngilizce (OpenAlex)

This study aims to examine the happiness levels of primary school students and the various factors that affect these levels. The research addressed factors such as peer bullying, socio-demographic, and behavioural variables, all of which were analysed for their impact on happiness at school. A relational survey model was used, with data collected from 4,612 primary school students in the Aegean Region during the 2023 - 2024 academic year in Türkiye. Correlation and regression analyses were performed on the data. The results showed that students were generally "quite happy" with “one in three students” experiencing peer bullying. All variables combined affected school happiness by 18%. Peer bullying negatively impacted students' happiness levels, while girls were found to be happier. Additionally, excessive mobile/tablet use, daily television viewing, number of siblings and age had a negative effect on happiness at school. Conversely, behaviour grades, reading habits, and maternal education levels were found to have a positive impact on happiness. The findings suggest that educational policies and school programs should aim to enhance students' happiness, with recommendations including the prevention of peer bullying, strengthening teacher-student relationships, ensuring active family participation, and simplifying educational content. These results are expected to guide educators, policymakers, and families.