Perceptions of Stress Experienced by Student-Athletes in an Education Opportunity Program

Abstract

Stress has been shown to have a negative impact on psychological and physical health. Individuals who experience chronic stress are at increased risk for serious health conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, coronary disease and some cancers as well as mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, disordered eating and substance use. The resulting conditions impact any area of an individual’s life such as academic or career endeavors. In the case of college students, experiences of stress impact student achievement and persistence. Research on student- athletes, underrepresented, first generation, and low-income students has shown these populations to be at increased risk for stress and the negative effects of stress experiences. This study aims to increase understanding of the experiences of student-athletes in an Education Opportunity Program (EOP). Participants indicated that they felt stressed sometimes to fairly often but felt in control of their lives. They identified academics, social, and personal wellness issues as concerns which caused them to experience stress. The new insights gained by this study will expand research in this area and could improve efforts by The College at Brockport EOP counselors to serve their student-athletes.