School Trust and Sense of Belonging: Restoring Bonds and Promoting Well-Being in Schools
2025
Elisabetta Fenizia | Santa Parrello
School dropout is a global issue that compromises individual and societal well-being. Researchers in psychology emphasize that dropout often results from a prolonged erosion of bonds between individuals, schools, and society, especially in socioeconomically disadvantaged contexts. School trust, described as the &ldquo:connective tissue&rdquo: within the school system, fosters psychological well-being and is associated with self-esteem, self-efficacy, life satisfaction, and reduced depression. This study aimed to explore the interaction of various relational constructs related to school life, which could be used to improve student well-being and reduce the risk of dropout. A total of 645 high school students from impoverished and high-crime neighborhoods in Naples were involved in the cross-sectional study, investigating the role that school trust plays in relation to positive teaching, self-efficacy, and the sense of belonging. The results indicate that positive teaching significantly enhances the sense of school belonging through the mediating role of students&rsquo: trust in teachers. These findings highlight the crucial role of trust as a mediator in strengthening student&ndash:school relationships. Schools should prioritize fostering trust by promoting teacher transparency, consistency, and care. Such efforts can enhance students&rsquo: sense of belonging, ultimately mitigating dropout risk and restoring their connection with education. This systemic approach is especially vital in contexts with significant socioeconomic challenges.
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