You are cordially invited to:
The Utilization of On-Campus Counseling Services by Single Mother Students in Higher Education: A Grounded Theory Research on Wednesday, May 8, at 3 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
The Institute for Women’s Policy Studies (2017, September) reported that only eight percent of single mothers enrolled in higher education completed their studies and graduated with a degree in six years. This may be due to a lack of social support and not using the counseling services for their own well-being. Studies show that behavioral problems may affect college students’ academic success and retention (Svanum & Zody, 2001). Studies demonstrate the challenges and success of single mothers in completing their bachelor’s degree and found that single mothers’ dropout rate is higher in comparison with other students or that they take longer to graduate (Fluellen, 2016; Vyskocil, 2018). Given challenging enrollment and completion rates, additional research is needed to ascertain what single mother students in higher education were reporting on the use of on-campus counseling services.
Employing a qualitative research methodology, interviews were conducted with 12 participants who met the eligibility criteria for this study. Using constructive grounded theory research design, findings reveal that the use of on-campus counseling helped the single mothers in higher education with better mental health, physical health and decision making. They reported they became better parents to their children as they have learnt healthy coping skills and parenting skills from their counselors. The study has implications for higher education practitioners and for students in similar circumstances.