Meta-Analysis of Generational Differences in the Relationship Between Self-Esteem and Happiness in Adolescent Boys: A Comparison of Generation Z and Generation Alpha (۲۰۲۰-۲۰۲۵)

This meta-analysis examines the shifting dynamics between self-esteem and subjective happiness in adolescent boys across two distinct cohorts: Generation Z (born ۱۹۹۷–۲۰۱۲) and Generation Alpha (born ۲۰۱۰–۲۰۲۵). Utilizing data from ۱۰ high-quality studies published between ۲۰۲۰ and ۲۰۲۵, including international and Persian research from Google Scholar, we synthesized correlation coefficients (r) to determine if the predictors of happiness have evolved over the past decade. The results indicate a significant but weakening relationship between traditional self-esteem metrics and happiness in Generation Alpha (r = ۰.۳۷) compared to Generation Z (r = ۰.۴۸). While Generation Z boys derive happiness primarily from internal self-worth and academic/social competence, Generation Alpha's happiness is increasingly mediated by digital validation and social media engagement. This study provides critical insights for educators and psychologists into the changing psychological landscape of the "digital native" generations.

کلیدواژه ها:

Meta-analysis ، Self-esteem ، Happiness ، Adolescent Boys ، Generation Z ، Generation Alpha ، Digital Validation ، Well-being