Date of Award

5-2025

Document Type

Project

Degree Name

Master of Social Work

Department

School of Social Work

First Reader/Committee Chair

Dr. Nicole L. Arkadie

Abstract

First-Generation Latina Students (FGLS) pursuing higher education in social work experience more anxiety and stress. This qualitative research study explored the components that contributed to FGLS anxiety and stress. One-on-one interviews were conducted with twelve First-Generation Latina Students pursuing a graduate degree in social work. The two theories that helped better understand the mental health factors that FGLS encountered were the bioecological systems theory and narrative theory. The bioecological systems theory was applied to explore participants’ different ecological systems. The narrative theory was utilized as a framework for participants to share their first-hand experiences in a graduate program. The information obtained was categorized into five themes: balancing the professional and personal life, financial challenges, navigating academics and personal development, stigma and perception in the culture, and healthy coping mechanisms. The lack of family knowledge and insufficient resources were two major factors that contributed to FGLS’ high anxiety and stress. Most participants reported feeling less supported by their families due to their family members' lack of understanding of higher education, which increased their anxiety and stress. FGLS faced a lack of resources in their master’s program which led to high anxiety and stress. Providing FGLS with resources and educating their families about the demands of a master’s program is beneficial for their support in higher education. This research study helps conclude that FGLS mental health matters and there should be more guidance and support provided to FGLS.

Download

  Contact Author

Plum Print visual indicator of research metrics
PlumX Metrics
  • Usage
    • Downloads: 11
    • Abstract Views: 7
see details

Included in

Social Work Commons

Share

COinS