The Underlying Causes of Boredom and the Coping Strategies among the Students of Junior High Schools in Iran

Abstract

Boredom is a prevalent issue among students, and understanding its root causes and effective coping mechanisms is crucial for their academic engagement and overall well-being. This study utilizes a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative interviews and quantitative surveys to gather comprehensive data from a diverse sample of junior high school students across Iran. The participants were 87 junior high students. The findings reveal unpredicted results, according to which fewer students suffer boredom in English classrooms compared with previous studies. Furthermore, the participants mentioned various coping strategies to combat boredom, such as seeking alternative sources of stimulation, engaging in daydreaming, socializing with peers, and utilizing stationery for entertainment. The results highlight the importance of addressing the notion of boredom and examining the coping strategies used by the students in order to be able to expand it across the educational system. Recommendations are provided for educators, policymakers, and parents to work upon the students’ coping strategies in junior high schools in Iran. By scaffolding and improving them, educators can help students overcome boredom and cultivate a positive educational experience.