Experiences of Hunger and Food Insecurity in College

Description

This volume explores the experience of hunger and food insecurity among college students at a large, public university in north Texas. Ninety-two clients of the campus food pantry volunteered to share their experiences through qualitative interviews, allowing the author to develop seven profiles of food insecurity, while at once exploring the impact of childhood food insecurity and various coping strategies. Students highlighted the issues of stigma and shame; the unwillingness to discuss food insecurity with their peers; the physical consequences of hunger and poor nutrition; the associations between mental health and nutrition; the academic sacrifices and motivations to finish their degree in the light of food insecurity; and the potential for raising awareness on campus through university engagement. Henry concludes the book with a discussion of solutions—existing solutions to alleviate food insecurity, student-led suggestions for additional resources, solutions in place at other universities that serve as potential models for similar campuses—and efforts to change federal policy. Front Matter ....Pages i-xvii Introduction (Lisa Henry)....Pages 1-16 Meaning and Experience of Food Insecurity (Lisa Henry)....Pages 17-43 Stigma and Shame (Lisa Henry)....Pages 45-60 Physical Health, Mental Health, and Nutrition (Lisa Henry)....Pages 61-78 Academic Success and Motivation (Lisa Henry)....Pages 79-94 Solutions (Lisa Henry)....Pages 95-119 Conclusions (Lisa Henry)....Pages 121-128 Back Matter ....Pages 129-131