General belonging among university students: The role of childhood trauma, unconditional self-acceptence and well being

The aim of this research is to examine the predictive role of childhood traumas, unconditional self-acceptance, and well-being variables in determining individuals' general sense of belonging. The research group consists of 674 voluntary university students (379 females, 295 males) enrolled at Mersin University during the 2021-2022 academic year. Research data was obtained using the Personal Information Form, General Belongingness Scale, Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ-33), Unconditional Self-Acceptance Scale, and PERMA Well-being Scale. The statistical analysis of the data was conducted using SPSS 26. Multiple Regression Analysis and Stepwise Regression Analysis were used to test the relationships between the predictor and outcome variables. Additionally, Pearson Correlation Coefficient, Independent Samples t-test, One-Way ANOVA, and Tukey Tests were applied to test assumptions and address other research questions. According to the research findings, the predictor variables account for 45% of the variance in general belongingness. In terms of gender, a significant difference was only found in the variable of childhood traumas. Lastly, it was concluded that individuals' general sense of belonging, childhood traumas, unconditional self-acceptance, and well-being levels differ based on perceived parental attitudes. The findings of the study were discussed, and recommendations for future research were provided.