The Decline of In Loco Parentis and the Shift to Coed Housing on College Campuses

Brian J. Willoughby, Brigham Young University
Jason S. Carroll
William J. Marshall
Caitlin Clark

Abstract

Many universities have changed their policies regarding the nature of on-campus housing—shifting from gender-specific to coed dorms. This study examines the scope of that transition in the United States. From a sampling of 100 universities in the United States, including the nation’s 50 largest universities, it was found that the vast majority of on-campus housing is currently coed in nature. Anecdotal information provided by the housing offices at these universities suggests that this transition is largely driven by student demand and financial considerations. Implications for future research and university policy making are discussed.