The Effectiveness of Peer Counseling in School and University Settings: A Cross-Cultural Meta-Analysis
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study designs: Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis
Abstract: Peer counseling is widely used in educational settings to deliver psychosocial and academic support through structured peer interactions. However, findings vary by context, age group, and program design. This study systematically reviews and quantitatively synthesizes the effects of peer counseling on students’ psychosocial well‐being and academic outcomes, focusing on educational level, cultural context, and intervention duration. The meta‐analysis included 15 quantitative studies (2007–2024) with 1,797 participants from middle school, high school, and university settings in OECD and non‐OECD countries. Following PRISMA 2020 guidelines, eligible studies were identified through multiple databases. A random‐effects meta‐analysis (DerSimonian–Laird) estimated the pooled Cohen’s d, with subgroup analyses by educational level, country type, and intervention duration. Heterogeneity was assessed using Q, I², and τ²; publication bias via funnel plots and Egger’s regression. The pooled effect size was d = 0.60 (95% CI: 0.55–0.66), indicating a moderate, significant effect. The largest effects were for university students (d = 0.84), followed by high school (d = 0.61) and middle school (d = 0.65). OECD‐country interventions showed greater consistency. Heterogeneity was substantial (I² = 74%), reflecting diversity in levels, outcomes, contexts, and designs. Sensitivity analyses showed removing two outliers reduced I² to 42.5% without altering the effect, suggesting variability stems from program intensity and contextual fit. No publication bias detected (p = .17). Peer counseling yields moderate‐to‐high gains in emotional regulation, resilience, and social adjustment, particularly when supported by structured training and cultural adaptation. Context‐sensitive, sustainable program designs are essential to maximize impact.
Authors: Muhammed Alkın YALÇIN, Çiğdem YAVUZ GÜLER
Institution: Fatih Sultan Mehmet Waqf University
Topic: Student Stress and Coping
Subfield: Developmental and Educational Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W7116689879
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