School Safety Measures, Bullying Prevention, and Learners’ Wellbeing: A Causal Model on Their Emotional Quotient

This study aimed to develop a causal model examining the relationships between school safety measures, bullying prevention, and the physical and psychological well-being of learners, focusing on their emotional quotient (EQ). Utilizing a descriptive-correlational and causal-comparative design, data were collected from 287 grade 6 students across various elementary schools in Lanao del Sur. The study employed validated and reliable questionnaires to measure school safety measures, bullying prevention practices, learners' well-being, and emotional quotient. Data analysis was conducted using Pearson product-moment correlation, multiple regression, and path analysis through structural equation modeling. The study addressed four primary problems: the extent of school safety measures implementation, which included physical safety measures, psychological safety measures, staff training and preparedness, and parent and community involvement; the extent of bullying prevention practices, which encompassed policy and procedures, educational programs and awareness, peer mediation and intervention strategies, and support systems and counseling; learners' well-being, which was assessed in terms of their physical, psychological, and emotional well-being; and learners' emotional quotient, which included self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills. The results indicated significant correlations between these factors and highlighted the importance of comprehensive safety and bullying prevention measures in fostering learners' emotional and overall well-being.