Undergraduate Students’ Lived Experiences of Building and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.62843/jrsr/2026.v.iv.227Keywords:
Interpersonal Relationships, Undergraduate Students, Lived Experiences, University LifeAbstract
This phenomenological study aimed to explore undergraduate students’ lived experiences of building and maintaining interpersonal relationships. A qualitative research approach along with interpretivism paradigm was used to conduct study. This research used the phenomenological research design. The departments in the faculty of social sciences at the The University of Lahore were the population of this study. A total of eighteen (18) students was the sample in the study, which was carefully chosen through purposive sampling technique. A Semi-structured interview protocol was developed for data collection. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data by using Nvivo 12.0. The responses were used to identify themes which addressed the research questions of the study. Themes were emerged from the responses to answer the research questions of the study. The responses were used to identify themes which addressed the research questions of the study. Results of the study showed that these personal relationships are not an extra or what is considered to be a secondary part of the process. They are vital to a student's sense of belonging, well-being and achievement and are a part of schooling. It is concluded that universities need to be more purposeful in designing spaces and programs that cultivate these important connections, ultimately leading students not just to succeed in their courses, but thrive in life. It is recommended that universities may develop structured programs and activities that encourage meaningful interaction among students, particularly during the first year, to help them establish supportive interpersonal relationships.
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