Supporting Mental Health and Adjustment for Victims of Violence in College

• In Event: Roundtable Session 10
  In Roundtable Session: New Research in Conflict Resolution

Abstract

Higher education professional have long been interested in mechanisms to support college student retention, learning, and performance. Yet, evidence suggests that students who experience victimization while at college are at particular risk for poorer outcomes by way of academic adjustment. This study examined the relationships among victimization, college adjustment, mental health, social support, and demographic characteristics in a cross-sectional sample of 481 undergraduate students. Results suggest that victimized students report poorer academic adjustment. Of those victimized in multiple forms, however, those who report positive social support are also more likely to report positive mental health outcomes. Policy, practice, theoretical and research implications are discussed.

Authors

• Joseph H. Gardella, Vanderbilt University - Peabody College

• Catherine Cerulli, University of Rochester

• Corey Nichols-Hadeed, University of Rochester