Keywords
Coping mechanisms, college students, photoelicitation, gender differences, stress management
Disciplines
Life Sciences | Mental and Social Health
Mentor
Babasola Fateye, Ph.D.
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to investigate coping mechanisms among college students at a Midwestern university using photoelicitation and to examine gender differences in coping responses, validated by mental health professionals. The study involved students from a large 4-year college in the Midwestern United States, along with mental health professionals. A diverse group of student participants and mental health professionals reviewed researcher-supplied photographs, rating coping mechanisms on a 1 to 10 scale. Students also uploaded photographs reflecting their coping methods. Quantitative and qualitative analyses were conducted on both researcher-supplied and student-submitted photographs. Mental health professionals validated student responses. Responses from non-binary/third gender individuals were analyzed separately to assess gender differences in coping skills. Data analysis revealed varying coping mechanisms influenced by gender, highlighting the need for personalized support for college students in dealing with school and life stressors. In conclusion, the study highlights the diverse coping strategies among college students and emphasizes the significance of understanding and addressing the coping mechanisms of LGBTQ+ individuals, which may differ from those of the majority community.
ScholarWorks Citation
Belkin, Jacqueline, "Is a Photo Indeed Worth a Thousand Words? Validating the Use of Photos to Understand Mental Health, Gender, and Coping Methods in College Students" (2024). Honors Projects. 947.
https://scholarworks.gvsu.edu/honorsprojects/947
