The Impact of Grief on College Students: Grief-Informed Framework and Strategies for Faculty

• In Event: Moscone Center West Roundtable Session 6
  In Roundtable Session: Stress and Coping in Late Adolescence and Higher Education

Abstract

Bereaved college students report many difficulties, including problems with concentration, a decreased sense of belonging and connection to school and their peers, lower GPAs than non-grieving peers, and greater risk for dropping out. Faculty members are uniquely positioned to support students impacted by grief. This article provides an overview of a grief-informed framework based on a task model, developed by a trusted US psychologist. We explore the impact of student grief, the university’s role in supporting grieving students, and faculty proactive and reactive strategies for supporting grieving students. Grief-support strategies have been shown to enhance coping, address stress, and build resilience. By faculty reconceptualizing both role and strategies to consider student mental health and student grief, all students could benefit.

Authors

• Anne J. Steketee, Millikin University

• Michael Hass, Chapman University