Author ORCID Identifier

https://orcid.org/0009-0004-7434-6992

Semester

Spring

Date of Graduation

2024

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Type

MA

College

College of Applied Human Sciences

Department

Counseling, Rehabilitation Counseling & Counseling Psychology

Committee Chair

Lisa Platt

Committee Member

Jeneice Shaw

Committee Member

Gabrielle Kline

Abstract

First-generation college students face numerous challenges and barriers in academia and related areas that impact their mental health in a manner that their non-first-generation peers may not experience. This population reports higher incidences of stress and distress, depression, and anxiety. However, little is known about the prevalence of suicidal ideation in this population. The current study hypothesized a difference between first-generation students and non-first-generation students on depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation. Participant data was gathered from the Center for Collegiate Mental Health (CCMH) 2015-2016 data set. Primary analyses will be independent samples t-tests and hierarchical linear regression. Results showed a difference between first-generation college students and their non-first-generation peers on CCAPS-62 depression scores and suicidal ideation -attempted and -considered. Generational status was also a predictor of depressive symptoms and consideration and attempts of suicide, until covariates were accounted for. Then, first-generation college students reported lower scores on the CCAPS-62 depression subscale, and there was no difference between first-generation college students and their non-first-generation peers for suicidal ideation. Conclusions from these results indicate that generational status may not be a leading factor in college students incidences of depression and suicidal ideation. Implications for clinicians are discussed to help university counseling centers understand and improve the well-being of students and improve mental health services available on campuses.

Included in

Counseling Commons

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