Factors affecting college life satisfaction and loneliness of early childhood education major college studentsin South Korea

This study aimed to identify psychological factors that influence university life satisfaction and loneliness among university students majoring in early childhood education. A total of 96 undergraduate students from a four-year university in South Korea participated in the study. The variables examined included self-efficacy, self-esteem, resilience (with subcomponents: endurance of negative emotions, positive supportive relationships, sense of control, and autonomy), life satisfaction, and loneliness. Descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and stepwise multiple regression analyses were conducted using SPSS 23.0. The results showed that life satisfaction and positive supportive relationships significantly predicted university life satisfaction, while self-esteem, life satisfaction, positive supportive relationships, and autonomy were significant negative predictors of loneliness. Interestingly, sense of control was positively associated with loneliness. These findings suggest that students' overall psychological well-being and the presence of supportive interpersonal relationships are critical for enhancing their satisfaction with university life and reducing feelings of loneliness. Based on the results, this study highlights the importance of implementing university-based programs that promote life satisfaction, social support, self-esteem, and autonomy among students. Practical implications and recommendations for psychological support and intervention programs in higher education settings are discussed.