Vulnerability factors associated with college adjustment trajectories during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

"The COVID-19 pandemic has overturned the lives of students in higher education. This study examines trajectories of college adjustment (in terms of academic, social, and emotional functioning) and associated vulnerability factors (e.g., disability status, low GPA, and low parental income) in students who experienced the first wave of the pandemic in the province of Québec (Canada). The sample comprises 1,826 students (mean age =18.2) attending 10 French language colleges. Using a longitudinal design, college adjustment was assessed in October 2019 (pre-COVID-19), early March 2020 (just before the pandemic was first declared in Québec), and April–May 2020 (peak of the first wave). The trajectory analysis (growth mixture models) indicates that most students perceived moderate declines in academic and social adjustment during the first wave. Large declines in academic and social adjustment were reported by 10% of students, with improvements by only 4%. Emotional adjustment was the most stable indicator of college adjustment during the first wave. Students with mental health diagnosis, lower parental income, and lower high school GPA were generally at greater risk for following a low functioning or worsening trajectory compared to other students. Preventive measures to reduce the pandemic’s long-term effects on academic and professional outcomes are recommended." -- provided by authors