Researcher ORCID Identifier

0009-0005-8058-8573

Graduation Year

2025

Document Type

Campus Only Senior Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts

Department

Psychology

Reader 1

Theodore Bartholomew

Reader 2

Stacey Wood

Rights Information

2024 Lovie D Brown

Abstract

Discrimination on campus remains a frequent experience for BIPOC students today. While existing literature suggests that racial affinity groups enhance both a sense of belonging and psychological well-being, there is limited research that directly links Black student unions (BSUs) to increased psychological well-being. This study seeks to examine the role of BSUs as protective agents against campus discrimination. In particular, this study explores how participation in BSUs impacts Black students’ sense of belonging and psychological well-being. To address these questions, 150 undergraduate students from the Claremont Colleges will complete an online survey administered under researcher supervision. This study hypothesizes that 1) participants who are members of a BSU will experience higher levels of psychological well-being than participants who are not, 2) participants who are members of a BSU will experience a stronger sense of belonging compared to participants who are not, 3) belongingness will moderate the relationship between BSU membership and psychological well-being such that students who are BSU members and have a strong sense of belonging will experience higher levels of psychological well-being, and 4) female-identifying BSU members will experience a higher sense of belonging than male-identifying BSU members. Findings from this study are expected to provide valuable insights into the protective functions of BSUs in promoting mental health and fostering a sense of community for Black students at predominately white institutions.

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This thesis is restricted to the Claremont Colleges current faculty, students, and staff.

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