Positive thinking and its relationship to social competence among middle school students in Wasit Governorate

Abstract

This study aimed to identify the relationship between positive thinking and social competence among female preparatory school students in Wasit Governorate during the academic year 2025–2026. The study adopted the descriptive correlational method, as it is suitable for examining the relationship between the two variables. The sample consisted of 270 female students selected from nine girls’ schools in Wasit Governorate: Al-Manahil Preparatory School, Al-Ta’mim Preparatory School, Al-Batool Preparatory School, That Al-Nitaqain Preparatory School, Al-Adhra Secondary School, Al-Kut Evening Preparatory School, Al-Yusr Preparatory School, Al-Karama Secondary School, and Al-Sayida Masooma Preparatory School. Two instruments were used: a positive thinking scale and a social competence scale. After verifying their validity and reliability, the two scales were administered to the main sample. The results showed that the students had a high level of positive thinking and a high level of social competence. The findings also revealed a statistically significant positive correlation between positive thinking and social competence. The study concluded that positive thinking contributes to enhancing students’ communication, cooperation, emotional control, and school adjustment. Based on the findings, the study recommended developing educational and counseling programs to strengthen positive thinking and social competence among female students.