Abstract

The purpose of this study is to contribute to the research on the use of relationship education programs with emerging adult college students in a university setting. The study examined the demographics of the individuals who participate in an on-campus relationship education program, recruitment procedures, and the potential gains in knowledge and skills among the emerging adults after participating in the program. The study also examined the association between the benefits gained and the participants’ demographic characteristics, and the association between recruitment strategies and participants’ demographic characteristics. Self-report date were collected from 31 emerging adult college students at a private university in southern California, who participated in the rIQ program delivered at the university. Findings from the current study showed that more females, Christian, and Caucasian individuals participated in rIQ, personal recruitment was most effective, and demographics were not related to recruitment strategies. Furthermore, results indicated that participants reported benefits gained in relationship knowledge, relational skills, and relationship decision-making. Finally, results indicated that student type was associated with benefits gained in relationship decision-making, with domestic U.S. students reporting greater benefit than international students. Limitations of the study and clinical implications and contributions are discussed.

Library of Congress Subject Headings

College students -- Relations; Relationship quality; Interpersonal relations -- Education

Date of Award

2020

School Affiliation

Graduate School of Education and Psychology

Department/Program

Psychology

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctorate

Faculty Advisor

Kathleen Eldridge

Included in

Psychology Commons

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