Predicting Student Happiness Based on Quality of Life and Religious Orientation: A Global and Iranian Meta-Analysis (۲۰۲۰-۲۰۲۵)

Student happiness is a multi-faceted construct that significantly impacts academic performance, mental health, and social integration. This meta-analysis explores the predictive power of two key variables-Quality of Life (QoL) and Religious Orientation—on the subjective well-being and happiness of students. By synthesizing empirical data from ۱۵ high-quality studies published between ۲۰۲۰ and ۲۰۲۵, including both global and Iranian research contexts, this study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of these relationships. A random-effects model was employed to calculate pooled effect sizes. Results indicate that both Quality of Life (r = ۰.۳۵, p < ۰.۰۰۱) and Religious Orientation (r = ۰.۲۶, p < ۰.۰۰۱) are significant predictors of student happiness. Specifically, QoL dimensions related to physical health and environmental stability showed stronger correlations, while intrinsic religious orientation was more strongly associated with happiness than extrinsic orientation. Heterogeneity and publication bias were assessed through I² statistics and funnel plots, respectively. The findings underscore the importance of integrating holistic well-being programs and spiritual support in educational settings to foster student happiness. This research contributes to the field by providing a dual-lens analysis of material and spiritual determinants, offering a roadmap for educators and psychologists to enhance student flourishing in a post-pandemic era. The implications of these results are discussed in the context of both Western and Eastern psychological frameworks, highlighting the universal and culturally specific aspects of happiness.

کلیدواژه ها:

Student Happiness ، Quality of Life ، Religious Orientation ، Meta-Analysis ، Subjective Well-being ، Educational Psychology