Key Factors Influencing Students’ Well-Being: Meta-Study of Qualitative Studies in Educational Contexts

Abstract

Well-being is a condition in which individuals are able to meet the basic needs that support their development. This study aimed to integrate previously conducted qualitative studies focusing on students’ well-being in educational settings by means of a meta-study method. A systematic search was conducted in the Scopus database for studies published between 2019 and 2024. From 1432 initial records, 12 qualitative studies met the inclusion criteria. The study selection process followed the PRISMA framework, and the included studies were subjected to qualitative thematic content analysis. This meta-study discusses the methods and data analysis used, reviews the theories underlying the research, examines the results of the studies, and synthesizes everything to produce a more complete picture. The study results showed that students’ well-being was influenced by five interrelated dimensions, namely Academic and Cognitive Aspects, Emotional and Psychological Aspects, Social and Interpersonal Aspects, Physical and Environmental Aspects, and Spiritual Aspects. Psychological stability through self-efficacy, resilience, and stress management was a key foundation in shaping effective academic and social achievement. This study bridged various qualitative results that were previously scattered and provided a theoretical and practical basis for the development of a more integrated and student-centered education policy.