Investigation of the mediating effects of psychological symptoms in the relationship between life satisfaction and happiness
British Journal of Guidance and Counselling, 2026 (SSCI, Scopus)
- Publication Type: Article / Article
- Publication Date: 2026
- Doi Number: 10.1080/03069885.2026.2649200
- Journal Name: British Journal of Guidance and Counselling
- Journal Indexes: Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI), Scopus, IBZ Online, CINAHL, Education Abstracts, Educational research abstracts (ERA), ERIC (Education Resources Information Center), Psycinfo, Social Sciences Abstracts
- Keywords: Australia, Happiness, life satisfaction, psychological symptoms, Turkey
- Istanbul Gelisim University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
The present study sought to ascertain the mediating role of psychological symptoms in the association between life satisfaction and happiness among Turkish individuals residing in Turkey and Australia. A cross-sectional quantitative design was employed, with a sample of 400 participants aged 18-65. The data were collected via an online survey using the Oxford Happiness Scale, the Satisfaction with Life Scale and the SCL-90-R. Statistical analyses, incorporating independent samples t-tests, Pearson correlations and mediation analyses, were conducted utilising SPSS. The findings indicated that participants living in Australia reported significantly higher levels of happiness and life satisfaction, whereas those residing in Turkey exhibited higher levels of psychological symptoms. The implementation of correlation analyses indicated a positive association between life satisfaction and happiness, while psychological symptoms exhibited a negative correlation with both constructs. Mediation analysis demonstrated that psychological symptoms partially mediated the relationship between life satisfaction and happiness, accounting for 11.7% of the total effect. These results emphasise the pivotal role of psychological well-being in elucidating the association between life satisfaction and happiness within a cross-cultural context.