Multiple Roles, Stress and Well-Being among MSW Students

Abstract

With more older, married, and working students entering graduate social work schools, there is concern that these “nontraditional” students need assistance managing the stresses of multiple roles beyond the student role. But do they experience more stress than other students? This study of MSW students indicates that the spouses, parents, and workers experience less rather than greater stress, but when all background characteristics are controlled, the only predictor of stress and poor psychological well-being is a psychological measure, perception of external Locus of Control.