Graduate Program
College Student Affairs
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Semester of Degree Completion
2013
Thesis Director
Dena R. Kniess
Thesis Committee Member
Dianne Timm
Thesis Committee Member
Jody E. Stone
Abstract
Utilizing qualitative methodology, participants' perceptions were examined to understand Resident Assistants' (RA) roles in relation to occupational stress and burnout, and the different coping mechanisms utilized by each of the six participants. Through conducting one-on-one interviews with RAs, it was found that participants experienced occupational stress and burnout from several influencers within the position. Participant's occupational stress was influenced by relational stress, administrative stress, boundary stress, and staff stress. Residents, administrative tasks/repetitiveness, staff, and recognition lead to feelings of burnout. Participants recommended taking personal time, maintaining social support, and avoiding procrastination as coping strategies for managing occupational stress and burnout. Recommendations for University Housing and Student Affairs Professionals were provided to gain insight into the challenges and stressors that face students who are in the RA position and other mechanisms to help decrease occupational stress and burnout.
Recommended Citation
Brandt, Kelsey J., "A Phenomenological Investigation of the Resident Assistant Position and Occupational Stress and Burnout" (2013). Masters Theses. 1171.
https://thekeep.eiu.edu/theses/1171
