2004 Qualitative Research

This report presents the findings from seven focus groups of students, which were conducted in February 2004 for the Office of Health Education by the Philadelphia Health Management Corporation. The purpose of the focus groups was to collect in-depth information on the stress and mental health needs of Penn students to assist OHE in expanding and creating programs.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

- Background
- Key Findings

• METHODS
  
  
• FOCUS GROUP PARTICIPANT CHARACTERISTICS
  
  
• FINDINGS
  
  • Stress and Stress Management
    • Sources of Stress
    • Stressors Related to Being LGBTQ
    • Stressors Related to Being a Student Athlete
    • Stressors Related to Being a Work-Study Student
    • Stressors Related to Having a Graduate Assistantship/Job
    • Stressors for Freshmen and Sophomores
    • Stressors for Juniors and Seniors
    • Family Expectations
    • Negative and Positive Aspects of Stress
    • Student’s Comparative Assessment of Stress
    • Stress Management
  • Sleep Schedule
  • Exercise
  • Diet and Nutrition
  • Body Image
  • Sexual Health
  • Health Services and Resources
    
    
• RECOMMENDATIONS
  

Source: The Philadelphia Health Management Corporation (PHMC) is a non-profit, public health organization committed to improving the health of the community through outreach, education, research, planning, technical assistance, and direct services.