Socio-Ecological and Psychological Factors Predicting Latina/o/x Community College Students’ Sense of Belonging

• In Event: An Examination of Factors Influencing Sense of Belonging Among Students of Color at Community Colleges

Abstract

The increasing enrollment of Latina/o/x students in postsecondary institutions demands urgent attention to their educational success and sense of belonging. This study adopts an asset-based lens to address Latina/o/x underrepresentation using the Socio-Ecological Outcome Model and intersectionality theory to identify factors influencing Latina/o/x students' sense of belonging in community college settings. Utilizing data from the 2018 Community College Survey of Student Engagement, we examine the influence of sociodemographic characteristics, campus support, and psychosocial factors on the sense of belonging of 13,740 Latina/o/x community college students. The findings have scholarly significance by informing the development of culturally responsive interventions to enhance the educational experiences and overall success of Latina/o/x students.

Authors

• Agustín J. García, Texas State University

• Yvette M. Regalado, University of Texas - San Antonio

• Melissa Garza, Charles Butt Foundation

• Carlton J. Fong, Texas State University