Date of Award
5-1-2017
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy
Department
Educational Administration
First Advisor
Green, Judith
Abstract
Ample evidence exists establishing the relationship between pregnancy during high school and subsequent educational difficulties, yet little research has investigated the relationship between pregnancy during college and subsequent educational difficulties. The purpose of this study was to determine if a relationship exists between pregnancy in undergraduate college students and educational attainment and to determine the strength and direction of said relationship. A quantitative research approach composed of historical medical and retention data was utilized. Vincent Tinto’s theory of student departure was applied to frame the use of experience of pregnancy diagnosis as a variable related to retention. Findings indicate a negative relationship between pregnancy diagnosis and educational retention, with specific ages and ethnicities at increased risk.
Access
This dissertation is Open Access and may be downloaded by anyone.