The stress and coping strategies of academically successful African-American women enrolled in a behavioral health and human services program at an urban community college in Pennsylvania

This study explored the daily stressors and coping strategies of 49 academically successful African-American females enrolled in a Behavioral Health/Human Services curriculum at an urban community college in Pennsylvania. Additionally, the study looked at college resources utilized and asked participants to offer suggestions as to the ways the college could support them in their academic journey. The study utilized the Daily Stress Inventory, the COPE Inventory, the College Helpfulness Survey, and asked an open-ended question. Respondents also provided demographic information. The data obtained offers insight into the unique needs of this population and implications for the institution to better understand and help support at-risk women. Findings for the population studied included the experience of moderate stress ranging from high to low, the use of positive, or adaptive, coping strategies the most, both use and non-use of college resources, and a need for improved communication of college services available by the college.