Nana Dawson-andoh
Published: 2016
Total Pages:
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Racial factors have been shown to play a role in the adjustment of African American college students attending predominantly White institutions (Ancis, Sedlacek, & Mohr, 2000; Davis et al., 2004; Jones, 2004; Solórzano, Ceja, & Yosso, 2000; Swim, Hyers, Cohen, Fitzgerald, & Bylsma, 2003). Social support also appears to be an important factor in the successful adjustment of African American students at PWIs (Bean, Bush, et al., 2003; Cohen & Wills, 1985; Guiffrida, 2003, 2004, 2005; Harris & Molock, 2000; Hinderlie & Kenny, 2002; Kimbrough et al., 1996; Lin, Dean, & Ensel, 1986; Mallinckrodt, 1988; Utsey et al., 2000). Utilizing a longitudinal design, the present study investigated how race-related factors such as racial identity, racial socialization, and racial climate influenced the college adjustment experience of African American students as well as how these factors influenced the size and racial composition of the social support networks. It was hypothesized that social support may play a mediating role in the relationship between these racial factors and college adjustment and that these relationships would vary by class status (freshman vs junior transfer students). Results were mixed and indicated that current racial climate and private regard were concurrently, but not prospectively, associated with overall college and institutional adjustment. This effect was moderated by class status. However, the size and racial composition of social support providers was not predicted by any racial factors nor did it predict college adjustment. Limitations and broad implications of findings are discussed.