Date of Conferral
5-14-2024
Date of Award
May 2024
Degree
Ph.D.
School
Public Health
Advisor
Magdeline Aagard
Abstract
Mental health issues among college students are increasing, and a better understanding of the issues may lead to more effective solutions. The purpose of this generic qualitative study was to explore mental health culture at a college setting for first-year students by exploring communication methods used by students. Ajzen’s theory of planned behavior was the theoretical framework that guided this study. Data were collected from personal artifacts shared by 12 participants followed by interviews to explore their mental health experiences, perceptions, beliefs, and behaviors. The findings from coding and thematic analysis were put into context by participant definitions of mental health, anxiety, and depression. Five themes emerged: (a) Community culture; (b) mental health stigma; (c) toolbox; (d) counseling services; and (e) mental health and student learning. Implications for positive social change may include improving the culture surrounding mental health issues and potentially optimizing the learning environment on college campuses.
Recommended Citation
Fait, Elizabeth Remick, "College Students’ Experiences and Perceptions of Mental Health in a Campus Culture" (2024). Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies. 15805.
https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/15805
