Activism, Burnout, and Community in Higher Education: Narratives of College Student Activists

This illuminating volume explores the often-overlooked relationship between college student activism and well-being, drawing on a multi-phase study that explores college students’ perspectives on how their activism impacts their well-being.

Based on a study of 119 US college students, the authors share their findings through a constructivist, qualitative lens, revealing three key themes: The link between student activism and students’ identities, the non-negotiable time costs of activism and associated burnout, and the ways that students and higher education can benefit from a different way of considering university and community care. With scholarship exploring the connections between college student activism and well-being still nascent, this book pioneers a fresh understanding of the intersection between student activism and well-being, amplifying authentic student voices throughout and offering practical recommendations for student support. Through a combination of personal narratives, data analysis, and expert commentary, it explores what inspires college student activists to work to create a more just and equitable society, as well as the prevalence of burnout and the tools students use to mitigate their struggles and improve their own well-being.

This book will be suitable for both undergraduate and graduate students as well as scholars, practitioners, and professionals in the larger higher education and social justice community.

Cher Weixia Chen is Associate Professor in the School of Integrative Studies at George Mason University, USA.

Graziella Pagliarulo McCarron is Associate Professor in the School of Integrative Studies at George Mason University, USA.

Julie E. Owen is Associate Professor in the School of Integrative Studies at George Mason University, USA.

Steve Grande is Assistant Professor of Graduate Psychology and Program Director of the College Student Personnel Administration program at James Madison University, USA.