Multiple Roles, Stressors, and Needs among Baccalaureate Social Work Students: An Exploratory Study

Abstract

Stress among social work students, especially at the MSW level, has been an acknowledged area of concern for educators and administrators. However, little research has been conducted on baccalaureate-level social work students to explore the stress they experience. This is especially true for students who have multiple roles, such as employment or parenthood, in addition to being in school. This exploratory study compared stress among BSW students with multiple roles and those who are traditional full-time students. We also examined areas of concern and services needed by the students. Findings indicate that students with multiple roles experience more everyday and perceived stress. Finances, lack of time, being able to afford school, and juggling multiple roles were major areas of concern for working students, while financial aid and child care needs differed among working and parenting students. Implications and recommendations for social work educators and administrators are discussed.