224371 Targeting student stress in a college setting: A research-based strategic planning process

Monday, November 8, 2010

Margaret Baker, MA, DrPH , Center for Health and Wellness Promotion, University of San Diego, San Diego, CA
Sandra Sgoutas-Emch, PhD , Department of Psychology, University of San Diego, San Diego, CA
Approximately one-third of college students report negative academic and health consequences due to stress. To address the problem of student stress at one university, a multidisciplinary task force studied factors underlying student stress and proposed comprehensive, sustained, and culturally-competent interventions at individual, group and institutional levels. Key to the strategic planning process was its grounding in both qualitative and quantitative data and analysis. The process presented in this case study identifies steps in collaborative strategic planning and components of applied research, as well as lessons learned. The multi-method research design employed participatory research (including focus groups and modified Photovoice techniques) to clarify the meaning of responses to survey questions and to better understand the context and patterns of stress and its consequences. Task force members integrated quantitative and qualitative research findings into sets of stressors relating to eight dimensions of wellness (e.g., physical, social, psychological, financial, etc.), and developed targeted strategies based on review of best practices to address major stressors. Subpopulation differences in sources, consequences, and responses to student stress drawn from quantitative and qualitative data enabled task force members to develop a strategic plan that targets the particular needs and strengths of high risk student cohorts such as females, students of color, students who work, and first generation college students. Briefing papers that summarized research findings and strategies for each wellness dimension were used to initiate campus-wide discussion and collaboration on action steps to implement multi-level strategies. The case study highlights achievements and challenges encountered in the process.

Learning Areas:
Administration, management, leadership
Assessment of individual and community needs for health education
Diversity and culture
Implementation of health education strategies, interventions and programs
Planning of health education strategies, interventions, and programs
Social and behavioral sciences

Learning Objectives:
Describe a consequence of stress for one high-risk cohort of college students. Describe two advantages of using triangulation of quantitative and qualitative data sources in applied research. Identify three steps for successful strategic planning that targets complex wellness issues in a college setting.

Keywords: College Students, Stress

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Qualified on the content I am responsible for because: I am PI on the research described and have 20 years experience working in college health and strategic planning.
Any relevant financial relationships? No

I agree to comply with the American Public Health Association Conflict of Interest and Commercial Support Guidelines, and to disclose to the participants any off-label or experimental uses of a commercial product or service discussed in my presentation.