Journal article
“My Biggest Thing is Helping People, Helping Others”: A Qualitative Study of Peer Socialization Agents’ Motivations
Journal of student affairs research and practice, Vol.63(1), pp.117-129
01/2026
DOI: 10.1080/19496591.2025.2559589
Abstract
Conceptually grounded in Self-Determination Theory, this study of 70 college peer socialization agents (e.g. resident assistants, orientation leaders) explored students’ choices to pursue, acquire, and retain these roles. After discussing four interconnected themes – PSA work as identity-centered equity work, PSA roles as pathways to personal development, PSA roles as reflections of past experiences, and PSAs motivations evolving over time – we offer implications for practice, theory, and research.
Details
- Title: Subtitle
- “My Biggest Thing is Helping People, Helping Others”: A Qualitative Study of Peer Socialization Agents’ Motivations
- Creators
- Maria-Victoria Perez - University of IowaJodi Linley - University of IowaNicholas R. Stroup - Ohio UniversityNicole F. Tennessen - University of IowaMavis Gyesi - University of Iowa
- Resource Type
- Journal article
- Publication Details
- Journal of student affairs research and practice, Vol.63(1), pp.117-129
- DOI
- 10.1080/19496591.2025.2559589
- ISSN
- 1949-6591
- eISSN
- 1949-6605
- Publisher
- Taylor & Francis
- Language
- English
- Electronic publication date
- 10/28/2025
- Date published
- 01/2026
- Academic Unit
- Educational Policy and Leadership Studies
- Record Identifier
- 9985019037802771
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