Author ORCID Identifier
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.
Recommended Citation
Wellings, Abigail A., "Prevalence of Depression and Suicidal Ideation in First-Generation College Students as Compared to Their Non-First-Generation Peers" (2024). Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Problem Reports. 12314.
https://researchrepository.wvu.edu/etd/12314