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Research: Belonging Through Sport – Boosting Wellbeing for Immigrant Youth

Participation in sports significantly boosts the sense of community and psychological wellbeing among immigrant youth, making it a powerful tool for social integration. As immigrant and international students often face challenges with belonging and mental health, Australian universities could benefit from promoting inclusive, low-barrier sports programs that foster social connections and support networks. Integrating sport into broader wellbeing and engagement strategies may enhance student experience, inclusion, and retention across diverse student populations.

Citation: Corvino, C., Martinez-Damia, S., Belluzzi, M., Marzana, D., D’Angelo, C. “Even Though We Have Different Colors, We Are All Equal Here”: Immigrants building a sense of community and wellbeing through sport participation. American Journal of Community Psychology, Volume 51, 2023. (link)

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Research: Are Students Really More Stressed? Re-thinking Mental Health in Young Australians

Young adults in higher education are often assumed to face greater mental health risks than their non-student peers, yet direct comparisons are limited. This research examined the mental health and wellbeing of 1,708 young Australians aged 17–25, including 828 university students and 880 non-students. It compared levels of psychological distress, wellbeing, resilience, and loneliness, and […]

Research: Fitting In: How Connection and Respect Drive University Belonging

A study of Australian university students found that interpersonal relationships, respectful environments, and opportunities for social engagement are key drivers of students’ sense of belonging. Students highlighted the importance of feeling accepted and respected, and valued spaces where they could connect with peers through clubs, societies, and events. These findings suggest that fostering inclusive, socially […]

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