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Date of Award

5-6-2021

Document Type

Restricted Thesis: Campus only access

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts

Department

Psychology

First Advisor

Dr. Karen Kochel

Abstract

In this study I investigated the association between social connectedness and psychological difficulties in first year students compared to upperclassmen. I utilized a web-based survey to collect data from college students to examine their psycho-social and academic adjustment during the COVID-19 pandemic. I found that low feelings of social connectedness were associated with higher levels of both depression and anxiety. I also found that year in school predicted psychological difficulties as upperclassmen were more likely to experience symptoms of depression and anxiety compared to first year students. However, I found that year in school did not moderate the relationship between social connectedness and depression and anxiety respectively. These results suggest that it may be beneficial for colleges to reevaluate their comprehensive plans regarding student well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic and devise increased availability of mental health resources for upperclassmen.

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