The Impact of a Sense of Belonging in College: Implications for Student Persistence, Retention, and Success

The sense of belonging is an essential aspect of student development, influenced by the campus environment, relationships, and involvement opportunities. This book provides a comprehensive compendium of research, applications, and approaches to sense of belonging, serving as a single point of reference in an emerging and promising field of study.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 306 pages
Publication date: 26 July 2022
Publisher: Stylus Publishing

Sense of belonging is a crucial aspect of student life, encompassing the extent to which a student feels included, accepted, valued, and supported on their campus. It is a complex and multifaceted concept that intertwines with the social identity development of diverse college students. The development of a sense of belonging is influenced by various factors, including the campus environment, relationships, involvement opportunities, and the need to master the student role and achieve academic success.

While the construct of sense of belonging is intricate and multifaceted, a consistent theme throughout the chapters in this book is the importance of integrating the intersectionality of identity into any approach to fostering belonging. Over the past decade, colleges and universities have recognized that their traditional approaches to student retention, persistence, and graduation rates were insufficient. As a result, there has been a shift in focus towards uncovering barriers to student success while also recognizing that student success extends beyond academic factors.

The term "student sense of belonging" gained traction in both academic and co-curricular settings as researchers and practitioners began to explore the factors that contribute to a student's sense of belongingness. However, there was a lack of a consistent definition, overarching theoretical approach, and a struggle to connect disparate research in this field. Recognizing the need for a comprehensive resource, the editors of this book brought it into being to serve as a single point of reference for researchers, practitioners, and students interested in understanding and promoting sense of belonging.

The book encompasses a wide range of research, applications, and approaches to sense of belonging, drawing from various disciplines such as education, psychology, sociology, and cultural studies. It provides a comprehensive overview of the theoretical frameworks, empirical studies, and practical strategies that have been developed to promote sense of belonging among college students. The chapters are organized in a way that allows readers to navigate the content easily, and they include case studies, examples, and exercises to facilitate understanding and application of the concepts discussed.

One of the key themes that emerges from the book is the importance of creating inclusive and supportive campus environments that foster a sense of belonging among all students. This includes promoting diversity and inclusion, providing opportunities for student engagement and participation, and addressing issues of marginalization and discrimination. The chapters also highlight the role of relationships and social connections in promoting a sense of belonging, including the importance of peer support, faculty-student relationships, and community engagement.

In addition to the theoretical and practical aspects of sense of belonging, the book also explores the impact of sense of belonging on student outcomes such as academic success, mental health, and overall well-being. The chapters discuss the strategies that colleges and universities can employ to promote sense of belonging, including programs and initiatives that focus on cultural competency, identity development, and social support.

Another important theme that emerges from the book is the importance of recognizing and addressing the challenges that students face. face. These challenges may include feelings of isolation, anxiety, and depression, as well as experiences of discrimination and marginalization. The chapters provide insights into the strategies that students can employ to navigate these challenges, including seeking support from mental health professionals, building resilience, and advocating for themselves and others.

In conclusion, the book "Sense of Belonging among College Students: Research, Applications, and Approaches" is a valuable resource for researchers, practitioners, and students interested in understanding and promoting sense of belonging among college students. It provides a comprehensive overview of the theoretical frameworks, empirical studies, and practical strategies that have been developed to foster a sense of belonging among diverse college students. By integrating the intersectionality of identity into any approach to fostering belonging, the book contributes to the development of a more inclusive and supportive campus environment that promotes student success and well-being.

Weight: 480g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781642672619