The Psychological Impact of Extracurricular Activities on Primary School Students: A Field Study in Primary Schools in Erbil

Abstract

This research highlights the importance of extracurricular activities as an effective educational environment for fostering the psychological development and stability of students. The primary objective of the study is to measure the level of psychological repercussions of extracurricular activities among basic education students, and to identify statistically significant differences based on demographic variables. To achieve these objectives, the researcher adopted a descriptive-analytical survey method. The research population consisted of students in grades (7, 8, and 9) of basic education schools in Erbil city. The sample was selected using a stratified random sampling method, comprising (420) male and female students from (20) public and private schools. Data were collected using a questionnaire consisting of (52) items, whose reliability was confirmed through Cronbach's alpha coefficient, yielding a high value of (0.922).

Following data analysis using the (SPSS) software, the findings revealed that the students' level of participation in extracurricular activities was high, with a mean score of (4.053). Furthermore, there is a statistically significant positive correlation (R = 0.554) between participation in these activities and psychological repercussions, indicating that activities account for (30.7%) of the students' psychological growth and emotional well-being. Additionally, the results of the (T-test) and (ANOVA) demonstrated no statistically significant differences based on gender or grade level; however, a significant difference emerged based on school type in favor of private schools. Ultimately, the study presents a set of recommendations emphasizing the utilization of these activities as a mechanism to alleviate academic stress and enhance students' self-confidence.