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

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.