Sky-Johnson, Clarise (2023) An exploration of depressive symptoms and motivation for higher education students: Comparisons between Dutch institutions and American universities. Master thesis, Pedagogical and Educational Sciences.
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Abstract
The value of a college education is being increasingly questioned, and those who choose to attend higher education institutions have various reasons for doing so. At the same time, students are overworked and depressed, and some students–such as students in vocational education and training (VET)–experience stigmatization because of their attendance as less prestigious institutions. Reasons for attending higher education institutions today, as well as depressive symptoms and stigmatization of VET may differ depending on a student’s institution. Moreover, these may vary widely by country. The purpose of this study was to compare students at HBO and WO in the Netherlands and college students in the United States on their reasons for attending college, their depressive symptoms, and their stigmatization of VET. No significant differences were found between HBO and WO students in the Netherlands. Dutch students in general had higher extrinsic motivation for attending higher education and fewer depressive symptoms than American students. No significant differences were found in stigmatization of VET. Stigmatization of VET was positively correlated with intrinsic motivation. Although no differences were found between HBO and WO, it would be worthwhile for future studies to compare depressive symptoms and motivations between university and VET students to determine what support is most needed. However, it is clear that depression prevalence is high, especially for American students, and on-campus support which limits the barriers marginalized students face to seeking treatment should be prioritized. Researchers and practitioners must work together in order to improve the wellbeing of students so that mental struggles faced in youth are not exacerbated in adulthood.
| Item Type: | Thesis (Master) |
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| Supervisor name: | Schreuder, P.R. |
| Degree programme: | Pedagogical and Educational Sciences |
| Differentiation route: | Youth 0-21, Society and Policy [Master Pedagogical and Educational Sciences] |
| Date Deposited: | 10 Jul 2023 12:15 |
| Last Modified: | 10 Jul 2023 12:15 |
| URI: | http://gmwpublic.studenttheses.ub.rug.nl/id/eprint/2268 |
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