Intersectionality of Self-Reported Food Insecurity and Perceived Stress of College Students at a Land-Grant Southeastern Higher Education Institution during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

College food insecurity (FI) and poor psychosocial health are prevalent public health issues in the U.S., yet often overlooked. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, repercussions on these critical inequity issues remain unclear. During the summer months of 2020, this cross-sectional survey examined associations between students' self-reported FI and perceived stress (PSS-10), one aspect of poor psychosocial health. Among respondents, 31.3% were food insecure and 37.8% were laid off or temporarily furloughed. This study adds important findings about college FI and perceived stress to the limited literature regarding college student health during the pandemic. A more rigorous study design with a larger, nationally or regionally representative sample is recommended for future studies. To address both complex issues of college FI and stress, a multifaceted interdisciplinary approach, well-supported by college administrators, would be warranted.