Sibling relationships and influence among first-generation college students
Presentation Type
Abstract
Faculty Advisor
Pearl Stewart
Access Type
Event
Start Date
25-4-2025 10:30 AM
End Date
25-4-2025 11:29 AM
Description
Introduction: During the past few decades, there has been a steady increase in college enrollment among first-generation college students. While there is a growing body of literature concerning first-generation college students, little of the research has focused on the relationship between those students and their siblings. This qualitative research study aims to understand how siblings affect the influence and identity of first-generation college students. Therefore, the research question for this study is, how do first-generation college students and sibling influence each other? Methods: To date, 19 Latino and 25 African American participants have provided data for this study. Data was collected via face-to-face, semi-structured interviews (45-90 minutes each). The analytic process began with each author’s independent coding of the data. Regular research team meetings were held to discuss these codes, find linkages among the codes, and illuminate the larger themes in the data. Results Three themes emerged during content analysis: Sibling influence on going to college: Older siblings who attended or graduated from college served as motivation for participants. Leading the way: Participants college attendance served as motivation for their younger siblings. Limiting Opportunities to protect and support siblings: The need to provide for the basic needs and emotional well-being of siblings limited participants’ ability to engage in academic and university-related opportunities. Sibling relationships play a significant role in the life of first-generation college students, illuminating the importance of family and increasing familial capital.
Sibling relationships and influence among first-generation college students
Introduction: During the past few decades, there has been a steady increase in college enrollment among first-generation college students. While there is a growing body of literature concerning first-generation college students, little of the research has focused on the relationship between those students and their siblings. This qualitative research study aims to understand how siblings affect the influence and identity of first-generation college students. Therefore, the research question for this study is, how do first-generation college students and sibling influence each other? Methods: To date, 19 Latino and 25 African American participants have provided data for this study. Data was collected via face-to-face, semi-structured interviews (45-90 minutes each). The analytic process began with each author’s independent coding of the data. Regular research team meetings were held to discuss these codes, find linkages among the codes, and illuminate the larger themes in the data. Results Three themes emerged during content analysis: Sibling influence on going to college: Older siblings who attended or graduated from college served as motivation for participants. Leading the way: Participants college attendance served as motivation for their younger siblings. Limiting Opportunities to protect and support siblings: The need to provide for the basic needs and emotional well-being of siblings limited participants’ ability to engage in academic and university-related opportunities. Sibling relationships play a significant role in the life of first-generation college students, illuminating the importance of family and increasing familial capital.
Comments
Poster presentation at the 2025 Student Research Symposium.