Predicting adjustment to college: the role of protective factors
Date
2017
Authors
Olivas, Nicole, author
Borrayo, Evelinn, advisor
Gingerich, Karla, advisor
Richards, Tracy, committee member
Zimmerman, Toni, committee member
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Abstract
A number of empirical studies have assessed successful college adjustment despite prior adversity, in order to understand how individuals who have experienced adversity adjust. In contrast to existent research, the present study aims to evaluate the general adjustment process during the first semester of college, while controlling for prior adversity, to determine which factors serve to enhance the likelihood of successful adjustment to the college environment. In addition, minimal research has been conducted on gender differences in protective factors. The present study aims to further understand whether a difference exists between men and women in protective factors associated with successful college adjustment. This study found that higher levels of self-esteem significantly predicted positive social adjustment to the college environment. Higher levels of self-esteem, quality education, and greater coping skills significantly predicted positive emotional adjustment. Further, greater levels of intelligence and quality education significantly predicted positive academic adjustment. Comparisons between men and women regarding different protective factors revealed that men reported a higher self-perception of personal talent than women. These findings have implications for designing effective orientation and transition programs that foster successful adjustment in first-year college students.