Structural Explanation of Social Competence Based on Teacher-Student Interaction Styles with the Mediation of Basic Psychological Needs

Abstract

Purpose: This study aims to examine the structural relationships between teacher-student interaction styles, the fulfillment of basic psychological needs, and students' social competence among female middle school students in Lahijan city. Methods and Materials: A descriptive-correlational research design was employed, involving 203 female middle school students selected through cluster random sampling from two schools in Lahijan city during the 2023-2024 academic year. Data were collected using standard questionnaires: the Teacher-Student Interaction Questionnaire by Murray and Zvoch (2011), the Basic Psychological Needs Scale by Guardia, Deci, and Ryan (2000), and the Social Competence Questionnaire by Parandin (2006). Structural equation modeling (SEM) using Smart PLS software was utilized for data analysis to explore the hypothesized relationships. Findings: The study revealed significant positive relationships between teacher-student interaction styles and the fulfillment of students' basic psychological needs. Additionally, the fulfillment of these needs significantly mediated the relationship between teacher-student interactions and students' social competence. Positive interaction styles characterized by effective communication and trust were found to directly enhance students' social competence. The structural model fit indices indicated that the proposed model adequately explained the data, highlighting the critical role of supportive teacher-student interactions in promoting social competence. Conclusion: The findings underscore the importance of teacher-student interaction styles in fulfilling students' basic psychological needs, which in turn, enhances their social competence. Effective communication, trust, and support for autonomy are pivotal in creating a conducive learning environment. These results have significant implications for teacher training and professional development programs, emphasizing the need for strategies that foster positive interactions and support students' psychological needs to improve social and academic outcomes.