Discrimination, school inclusion, and quality of life in adolescence: a mediation analysis

Discrimination is a known risk factor for poorer mental health and reduced wellbeing during adolescence. This study aims to examine whether perceived inclusion in school mediates the relationship between perceived discrimination and quality of life (QoL) among adolescents.

A cross-sectional study was conducted with a nationally representative sample of 839 Spanish adolescents aged 12 to 16 years. Participants completed the Everyday Discrimination Scale (EDS), the Perceptions of Inclusion Questionnaire (PIQ), and the KINDL-R QoL measure. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was used to analyze the direct and indirect effects of discrimination on QoL, with inclusion as a proposed mediator. Measurement invariance across gender was also assessed.

Perceived discrimination showed a significant negative association with QoL (β = -0.436, p < 0.001), while inclusion was positively associated with QoL (β = 1.575, p < 0.001) and negatively associated with discrimination (β = -0.457, p < 0.001). Inclusion partially mediated the impact of discrimination on QoL, with a significant indirect effect (β = -0.719, p < 0.001). Mediation models demonstrated superior fit compared to non-mediated alternatives. School inclusion mitigates the negative impact of discrimination on adolescent QoL.

Findings highlight the importance of fostering inclusive educational environments to enhance adolescent wellbeing. Future studies should examine these relationships longitudinally and across diverse cultural contexts.