Grief Policies in Higher Education: A Critical Analysis of Bereavement Supports for College Students

• In Event: Fairmont Roundtable Session Seventeen
  In Roundtable Session: Stressors Affecting College Students (Table 14)

Abstract

The loss of a loved one can be especially stressful for university students. Common grief responses can include difficulty concentrating, a decreased sense of belonging, lower GPAs, and a higher risk of dropping out. This pilot study presents preliminary findings across 18 small, medium, and large universities in Illinois to evaluate universities’ grief policies and services, types of grief services offered, and accessibility of grief-related policies for students. Findings will support our understanding of what universities provide and position us to understand better the range of program models throughout the United States. College students with disabilities and those from underserved communities whose needs are disproportionately underrepresented will benefit from greater access to grief-related policies and enhanced university support.

Authors

• Asheka Jackson, Millikin University
  Presenting Author

• Anne J. Steketee, Antioch University
  Non-Presenting Author

• Dante Hansen
  Presenting Author

• Elise Assaf, California State University - Fullerton
  Presenting Author

• Michael Hass, Chapman University
  Presenting Author