Mental Health Among STEM College Students: Examining Racial Disparities and Their Consequences

• In Event: Race, Gender, and Class Roundtables Session
  In Refereed Roundtable (60 minute): 7) Health, Well-Being, and Social Conditions

Abstract

This study investigates racial disparities in mental health among undergraduate students in STEM courses, utilizing a nationwide sample of approximately 3,500 college students. Mental health is a critical factor influencing academic performance and overall well-being among college students, yet little research has focused on how it varies among STEM students, particularly across racial groups. In this study, I explore the relationship between various college experiences and mental health, with a focus on how these experiences differ by student race.

Findings from the study highlight significant racial disparities, with students of color reporting lower levels of mental health compared to their White peers. This finding underscores the importance of understanding how racial identity intersects with academic experiences to affect emotional well-being in STEM students. I further examine the specific college experiences that contribute to mental health, including the role of academic support, peer interactions, and faculty engagement.

To analyze the data, I employed multiple regression analysis to examine the relationships between race, college experiences, and mental health outcomes. One of the most striking findings is the significant impact of receiving constructive feedback from faculty. Among STEM students, those who reported regular, supportive feedback from faculty members experienced notably better mental health outcomes. This suggests that faculty-student relationships play a crucial role in buffering the mental challenges that STEM students often face.

Based on these findings, I recommend that STEM departments prioritize fostering positive and supportive interactions between students and faculty. Creating opportunities for students to engage with faculty in meaningful ways can help reduce racial disparities in mental health and improve the overall educational experience for all STEM students. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of the factors influencing mental health in higher education, particularly within the context of STEM programs.

Author

• Peter Cho, Cerritos High School