Connor Hall

Document Type

Honors Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science

Date of Award

Spring 4-16-2025

Abstract

Honors students at East Texas A&M University (ETAMU) may have higher expectations to succeed due to greater course load and pressure versus students who are not in the honors program. These expectations can lead to stress that may cause perfectionism, anxiety, or depression (Rice, 2006; Wan, 2022; Van Praag, 2004). This study sought to determine if higher expectations and course load could lead to differences in mental health in honors versus non-honors students at East Texas A&M University. In order to determine these mental health characteristics, data was gathered using responses to a Qualtrics survey sent to 7527 ETAMU undergraduate students. We asked various questions regarding each student’s perception of their mental health. These questions pertained to symptoms of perfectionism, anxiety, and depression. Our results determined that there was a statistically significant relationship between people who are in the honors college and the following statements: ● “I am a person who sets high standards for myself.’’ ● “I often check my work carefully to make sure there are no mistakes.” ● “Others expect me to be perfect.” There were no other significant correlations between the other mental health questions and enrollment in the honors program at ETAMU. Optional questions were included asking the students what they think should be done by the university to improve their mental health. The most frequently given answers were about wanting more help with paying off tuition and wanting more guidance from professors and advisors. These results can help improve the understanding of the mental health of undergraduate students and how greater expectations and pressure can influence it. The results can also help the university work to improve the mental health of undergraduate students.

Advisor

Adam Bowden

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