Assessing the role of social capital in safeguarding the mental health of college students during the coronavirus pandemic

Boahene, Prince Yaw (2023) Assessing the role of social capital in safeguarding the mental health of college students during the coronavirus pandemic. Masters thesis, Northern Arizona University.

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Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about unprecedented challenges for college students worldwide. Research suggests that the mental health of vulnerable populations such as college students was negatively affected. International students have been referenced as one of the groups significantly impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. Unlike international students, considerable evidence suggests that domestic/host students have a broader social capital base. Thus, domestic students are more likely to have higher social capital leading to better mental health. This study aimed to explore the impact of the pandemic on the stress and depressive levels of domestic and international students and to examine the role of social capital in protecting the mental health of college students. Findings revealed that both domestic and international students experienced moderate stress levels and depressive symptoms during the pandemic, but domestic students reported slightly higher levels of stress and depression. Additionally, domestic students were found to be more susceptible to unexpected disruptions, nervousness, and coping challenges than their international counterparts. Moreso, international students had higher levels of bonding social capital than domestic students. These results suggest that lower social capital, both at the micro and macro level, has a negative impact on college students' well-being. The study's findings highlight the need for universities to invest in resources and support systems to help students cope with stress and depression and build social capital.

Item Type:	Thesis (Masters)
Publisher’s Statement:	© Copyright is held by the author. Digital access to this material is made possible by the Cline Library, Northern Arizona University. Further transmission, reproduction or presentation of protected items is prohibited except with permission of the author.
Keywords:	Coronavirus; College students; International students; Social capital; Mental health
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > HM Sociology
NAU Depositing Author Academic Status:	Student
Department/Unit:	Graduate College > Theses and Dissertations College of Social and Behavioral Science > Sociology and Social Work
Date Deposited:	03 Aug 2023 16:37
Last Modified:	03 Aug 2023 16:37
URI:	https://openknowledge.nau.edu/id/eprint/6087

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