Date of Award

August 2026

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department

Education, Health & Behavior Studies

First Advisor

Steven LeMire

Abstract

Current literature has focused on the emotional well-being of collegiate students, specifically around feelings of loneliness and isolation, while trying to determine how to increase sense of belonging. There is research that demonstrates the importance of being involved in student organizations, as it can help students be successful both in college and when they graduate. The benefits of being involved in an organization also translate to retention and graduation rates. Research has demonstrated that students who are actively engaged in activities outside of the classroom are able to connect with friends and faculty members, get a better handle on campus, and have improved critical thinking skills (Webber et al., 2013). The skills learned in these organizations can help prepare students for the professional workforce. While fraternities and sororities (Greek life organizations) are considered student organizations, there was not substantial information that specifically focused on members of these organizations. Much of the information surrounding Greek life organizations focused on news stories surrounding hazing incidents and/or accidents where substance misuse led to harm or even death.

This study examined the emotional well-being of Greek life organizations students on a college campus. This was quantitative research study that was conducted using a survey, administered online. Three research questions were asked: Is there a correlational/linear relationship between level of involvement in a Greek life organization and emotional well-being? Is there a correlational/linear relationship between strength of relationships amongst members of a Greek life organization and the emotional well-being of students in that organization? Is there a correlational/linear relationship between involvement in leadership roles within the Greek life organization and emotional well-being?

Of the three research questions, there was statistical significance between involvement in leadership roles and emotional well-being. For the other two research questions, there was a positive slope in the data, which could support the literature around factors that influence emotional well-being, but it was not statistically significant. When looking at the other research questions, there appears to be some impact on interpersonal relationships and emotional well-being. There also was a connection between an individual’s involvement in organized activities and relationships with individuals who are not involved in the Greek life organization.

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