The Role of Optimism and Social Support in Improving the Life Satisfaction of Migrant Students

Abstract

This study looks at how optimism and social support help improve the happiness of students who are studying away from their hometowns. It uses a quantitative approach to look at the connections between these factors. The sample included 100 students who are currently studying outside their hometowns, and they were chosen through purposeful sampling. To gather data, an online survey was used, which included well-tested tools: the Life Orientation Test-Revised to measure optimism, the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support to check for social support, and the Satisfaction With Life Scale to evaluate life satisfaction. The data was analyzed using multiple regression with SPSS version 25 to see how the variables are connected, both directly and through their interaction. The results show that both optimism and social support have a strong positive effect on the life satisfaction of students who move away. Also, these factors work together to improve happiness even more. These findings back up the broaden-and-build theory, which says that having positive mental resources and good social connections helps people feel better. This study suggests that schools and government officials should create programs that build optimism and improve social support to help international students adjust and feel better in their new environment.