ERIC Number: ED650001
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 2022
Pages: 100
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: 979-8-3584-8113-8
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
Therapists' Supporting First-Generation College Students: A Preliminary Needs Assessment
Maria Baghasarian
ProQuest LLC, Ed.D. Dissertation, California State University, Los Angeles
The number of first-generation college students has steadily increased, with 56% of college students identifying as first-generation college students (Center for First-Generation Success, n.d.). First-generation college students are a unique subgroup of students who often face unique stressors, including being of underrepresented status and coming from low socioeconomic backgrounds (Stebleton et al., 2014). Moreover, first-generation college students may experience more mental health symptoms and stressors than their peers; at the same time, research has shown these students do not use mental health services as often as non-first-generation college students (Stebleton et al., 2014). It is crucial for higher education institutions to have therapists who are equipped with tools to support first-generation college students in their college journeys. Little is known about the needs of therapists to support first-generation college students, nor their perceptions of their preparedness in supporting first-generation college students. This study used mixed methods to explore the needs of therapists working with first-generation college students. Results showed therapists who work with first-generation college students believed they have an understanding of the unique needs of college students and believed they are able to support their needs. Participants reported a lack of trainings on first-generation college students and reported high interest in attending these trainings. Results also showed participants felt their firsthand experiences of being first-generation college students and/or direct experiences working with these students best prepared them in supporting first-generation college students. Implications for graduate training and professional development were considered based on these findings. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]
Descriptors: First Generation College Students, Mental Health, Well Being, Stress Variables, At Risk Students, School Counselors, Student Needs, Health Needs, Counselor Attitudes, Counselor Qualifications, Experience
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Publication Type: Dissertations/Theses - Doctoral Dissertations
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A