Analysis on the perceived financial strain and its effects on university students' welfare. · Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Author

B1953004

Title

Analysis on the perceived financial strain and its effects on university students' welfare.

Abstract

ABSTRACT
This study examined the relationship between perceived financial strain and the physical,
mental/emotional, and social well-being of students in college. The quantitative study used
online surveys to gather data from ninety-eight college participants. The data gathered from the
surveys suggests there is a relationship between perceived financial strain and student wellbeing. Students reported an impact on their friend, peer, and familial relationships and reported
higher levels of worry, sadness, and frustration. In addition, all three categories of student wellbeing were associated with overall perceived financial strain, indicating as financial stress
increased, it affected physical, mental/emotional, and social well-being. Results indicate that
colleges and universities should provide additional resources and seek solutions to decrease
their student’s perceived financial strain and the negative impacts associated with said strain.
Recommendations include case management for students with expressed financial needs, campus
advocacy, and resource linkage. Researchers recommend promoting financial literacy and the
implementation of disconnect days or university hour to allow the students a designated time
blocked hour to access the gym or meet their basic food needs by accessing the on-campus food
pantry and other resources. Further recommendations to decrease financial stress include
promoting mindfulness and hosting family workshops with topics centered on healthy
communication, conversations for first generation families, and the university hosting no cost
events in the community for the student and their families

Date

JUNE 2024

Publisher

BUSE

Keywords

financial strain
levels of worry, sadness, and frustration
basic food needs

Supervisor

NIL