Working class academics and mental health
Challenges and coping strategies
Bibliographic Data
| ID | 22229902 |
|---|---|
| Authors | Teresa Crew (0000-0001-8997-7886, Bangor University, corresponding author) |
| Year | 2025 |
| Volume | 5 |
| Issue | 5 |
| Publication date | 2025-05-09 |
| Peer Reviewed | Yes |
| Open Access | Yes |
| Type | ARTICLE |
| Venue | SN Social Sciences (JOURNAL) |
| Journal identifiers | ISSN: 2662-9283 • E-ISSN: 2662-9283 |
| Publisher | Springer Science and Business Media LLC (PUBLISHER) |
| DOI | 10.1007/s43545-025-01090-0 |
| OpenAlex | W4410245043 |
| Language | EN |
| Citations received | 1 |
| References cited | 32 |
This mixed-methods study examined mental health challenges and coping strategies among working class academics (WCAs) in the UK. Data was collected over five years (2018–2023) through interviews ( n = 163) and a survey ( n = 90) of WCAs. Three primary factors contributing to mental health challenges were identified: 1. economic insecurity, 2. imposter syndrome, and 3. cultural disconnection. These factors were associated with increased stress, anxiety, and depression among WCAs. Despite these challenges, WCAs demonstrated resilience through three key strategies: 1. embracing working-class identity as a strength, 2. adaptability, and persistence, and 3. building supportive networks. This study highlights persistent class-based obstacles in academia, challenging narratives about education’s transformative power and extending understanding of imposter syndrome by linking it to class background. Findings inform policies for inclusive academic environments, suggesting targeted mental health support, professional development, financial aid, and inclusion of class in diversity initiatives. Future research directions include comparative studies on WCA-specific challenges, longitudinal research on career trajectories, and asset-based approaches to leveraging class diversity in academia. This study underscores the urgent need for systemic changes to address classism and promote equity in HE
Mental health · Psychotherapist · Sociology · Computer Science · Healthcare professionals’ stress and burnout · Higher Education Research Studies · Mentoring and Academic Development · Psychology
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| Unique citing works | 1 |
|---|---|
| Citations per year | 1 |
| Citation span | 2026 - 2026 (1) |
| Citation velocity | current |
| Highly cited | No |
| Citation types | Neutral: 1 |