First-generation students' sense of belonging, mental health, and use of counseling services at public research universities

Abstract

This study explored 1st-generation students' sense of belonging, mental health status, and use of mental health services in comparison to non-1st-generation students. Using the Student Experience in the Research University multi-institutional survey, the authors found that 1st-generation students tended to report lower ratings of belonging, greater levels of depression/stress, and lower use of services compared to non-1st-generation students. Implications for college counselors and suggestions for future inquiry are provided. © 2014 by the American Counseling Association. All rights reserved.