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ERIC Number: ED670343
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 2024
Pages: 144
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: 979-8-3028-2678-7
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: 0000-00-00
Exploring the Feasibility, Acceptability, and Impact of Podcast Programming in Supporting College Student Mental Health
Jamie R. Bennett
ProQuest LLC, Ph.D. Dissertation, The University of Utah
This three-phase study explored the feasibility, acceptability, and impact of a Mental Health podcast program for college students. Phase I used a needs assessment to understand (a) the number of days impacted by MH concerns, (b) behaviors and coping strategies, (c) contributing factors, and (d) ways MH impacts students. Students between the ages of 19-30 (N = 379) indicated they are impacted by stress 3.98 (SD = 2.15), sadness 2.50 (SD = 2.17), and loneliness 2.58 (SD = 2.28) days per week. Behaviors commonly exhibited in response to MH symptoms were media consumption, sleeping/bed, and connections/support. Frequently identified coping skills included connections/support, exercise, and media consumption. Among the most cited contributing factors were connections, school, and MH conditions. Students impacted by MH concerns also noted isolation/disengagement, procrastination/low motivation, and decreased quality of academic work. Phase II used evidence-based practices for podcasts, a practice model, results from Phase I, and standardized assessments to inform the development of a podcast program designed to address the specific needs of college students. Phase III assessed the impact of the podcast program on anxiety, depression, loneliness, and well-being in 47 students. Participants reported significantly lower anxiety [GAD-7 scores decreased from 9.7 (SD = 4.46) to 6.17 (SD = 4.73), t (45) = 5.89, p < 0.001], depression [PHQ-9 averaged 10.04 (SD = 5.06) pre-program and declined to 6.59 (SD = 5.12) post-program, t(45) = 6.12, p < 0.001], and loneliness [UCLA Loneliness Scale decreased from 48.93 (SD = 11.05) to 41.8 (SD = 12.50), t(45) = 6.13, p < 0.001], and significantly higher levels of well-being [Flourishing scores increased from 41.11 (SD = 8.68) to 45.5 (SD = 9.46) following the program, t(45) = -4.00, p < 0.001]. The subjective experience and impact on anxiety, depression, loneliness, and well-being were also explored through qualitative inquiry. Participant responses were grouped by themes that indicated the program encouraged self-reflection/improvement, and development of coping skills while offering relatable content. Findings offer valuable insight and initial support for the program's potential to cultivate positive MH and well-being outcomes. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com.bibliotheek.ehb.be/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]
ProQuest LLC. 789 East Eisenhower Parkway, P.O. Box 1346, Ann Arbor, MI 48106. Tel: 800-521-0600; Web site: http://www.proquest.com.bibliotheek.ehb.be/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml
Publication Type: Dissertations/Theses - Doctoral Dissertations
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A