EXPLORING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN BOOST IN TOLERANCE, NEED TO BELONG, AND LIFE SATISFACTION AMONG UNDERGRADUATE UNIVERSITY STUDENTS

Abstract

The study examines the relationships between Boost in Tolerance, Need to Belong, and Satisfaction in Life among undergraduate university students. A total of 576 students (M = 21 years) from various faculties and departments participated in the study, with an equal number of male and female respondents. Using a purposive sampling technique, participants completed three validated scales: the Tolerance for Disagreement Scale, the Need to Belong Scale, and the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWL). Results revealed a weak but statistically significant positive correlation between Boost in Tolerance and Need to Belong (r = 0.22, p < 0.01). This suggests that individuals with higher tolerance levels tend to experience a slightly greater need for social inclusion. A moderate positive correlation was observed between Boost in Tolerance and Satisfaction in Life (r = 0.36, p < 0.01), indicating that increased tolerance is associated with improved well-being. However, the correlation between Need to Belong and Satisfaction in Life was weak (r = 0.08, p < 0.05), suggesting minimal practical significance. Additionally, a t-test analysis of gender differences found no significant variation in Boost in Tolerance (t = 0.49, p = 0.31) or Satisfaction in Life (t = 1.52, p = 0.06). A significant gender difference was found between males and females on Need to Belong (t = -2.7, p < 0.001), with females reporting a higher need for belonging. The findings will help understand the interplay between satisfaction in life, the need for belonging and a boost in tolerance in university students.

Keywords: Tolerance, Need to Belong, Life Satisfaction, Undergraduate Students, Well-Being