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Crisis, Confidence, and Conserving Resources: Examining How Adult Education Students Navigate Stressors and
Frances J Griffith1, Sydney C Simmons1, Shannon Schrader2,3
1Division of Prevention and Community Research, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA.
Adult Learning (Washington, D.C.)
|August 25, 2025
Summary
Trauma and COVID-19 stress negatively impact vocational confidence in adult basic education students, particularly those facing marginalization. Addressing these stressors is crucial for improving educational and career outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Education
Background:
- Social and systemic barriers lead to K-12 attrition and enrollment in adult basic education (ABE).
- Conservation of Resources Theory provides a framework for understanding stress and resource management.
- ABE students face unique challenges impacting educational and vocational pursuits.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the impact of trauma and COVID-19-related stress on vocational confidence among ABE students.
- To explore the relationship between marginalization, trauma, stress, and vocational confidence.
- To inform ABE program development and retention strategies.
Main Methods:
- Survey methods with convenience sampling were employed for data collection (N = 227).
- Structural equation modeling analyzed the relationships between trauma, COVID-19 stress, alcohol use, and vocational confidence.
- Statistical analysis identified predictors of stress and vocational confidence.
Main Results:
- Past traumatic experiences were more prevalent among marginalized ABE students (e.g., LGBTQ+, unhoused).
- Trauma exposure predicted increased COVID-19-related stress and alcohol use.
- Higher COVID-19-related stress was associated with lower vocational confidence.
Conclusions:
- Marginalized ABE students encounter compounded barriers due to trauma and subsequent stressors.
- Psychoeducational resources can help offset stressors and enhance vocational confidence.
- Targeted interventions are recommended for ABE centers to support student retention and success.
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