Degree Name
BS
Department
Psychology
College
Family, Home, and Social Sciences
Defense Date
2025-03-03
Publication Date
2025-03-13
First Faculty Advisor
Chelsea Romney
First Faculty Reader
Sarah Coyne
Honors Coordinator
Ed Gantt
Keywords
student mothers, well-being, resource accessibility, childcare, academic support, campus resources
Abstract
Student mothers may face unique challenges in balancing their educational and parental responsibilities, yet their experiences remain underexplored in academic research. This study examines the well-being, challenges, and resource accessibility of student mothers at Brigham Young University (BYU). Using survey data from 20 student mothers, this research evaluates their perceived school support, mental well-being, and awareness of available campus resources. Participants reported moderate levels of perceived school support and overall mental well-being, with lower scores on measures of relaxation, social connectedness, and energy levels. While no significant correlation was found between resource availability and well-being, qualitative responses revealed critical gaps in institutional support, particularly regarding childcare, financial assistance, and resource awareness. These findings highlight the need for BYU to enhance its support systems, ensuring that student mothers receive the necessary assistance to thrive academically and personally.
BYU ScholarsArchive Citation
Cranney, Sophia Claire, "Supporting Student Mothers: A Study of Well-Being, Challenges, and Resource Accessibility at Brigham Young University" (2025). Undergraduate Honors Theses. 436.
https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/studentpub_uht/436