COMMITTEE CHAIR: Dr. Temilola Salami

TITLE: MORE THAN A MOVEMENT: THE MENTAL HEALTH TOLL OF ACTIVISM AND THE SHIELD OF SOCIAL SUPPORT AT HBCUs

ABSTRACT: Student activism has historically contributed to sociopolitical change, with college campuses serving as important contexts for civic engagement and identity development (Ballard et al., 2024; Cabrera et al., 2017; Conner, 2020). At Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), activism is often connected to students lived experiences and efforts to challenge systemic inequities (Byon et al., 2022; Patterson, 2021). Although activism may promote empowerment and collective identity, sustained advocacy may also contribute to psychological distress, including anxiety and depression, particularly among students of color (Chen et al., 2024; Hope et al., 2018). However, limited research has examined culturally relevant protective factors that may influence the relationship between activism and psychological distress among HBCU students. The primary objective of this study was to examine whether perceived social support from family, friends, and significant others served as a moderator of the association between activism and psychological distress. Participants included 314 students recruited from an HBCU psychology research pool. Participants completed measures assessing activism, perceived social support, anxiety, depression, everyday discrimination, and demographic characteristics. Multiple regression and moderation analyses were conducted using SPSS. Results indicated that greater activism involvement was associated with higher anxiety (p < .001) and depressive symptoms (p < .001). Among the three sources of perceived social support, only family support was associated with lower anxiety (p = .003) and depressive symptoms (p < .001). No evidence was found that perceived social support moderated the association between activism and psychological distress (all ps = .112–.703). Findings suggest that activism may be associated with increased psychological distress among HBCU students, while family support may serve as an important protective factor. These findings contribute to the limited literature examining activism, mental health, and culturally relevant sources of support within HBCU settings and underscore the need for supportive resources that foster student well-being.

Keywords: Student activism, social support, mental health, HBCUs, psychological distress

Zoom Link:
https://zoom.us/j/2111025381?pwd=AbS4n3Pm9f9bcmrjk9d9Hs1Z2K5Eve.1&omn=94587480965

Meeting ID: 211 102 5381
Passcode: 272927