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STAR*PR: Study on Trauma, Adversity, and Resilience in Puerto Rico

Violence in home, school, and community settings is widespread and harmful to mental health. Known as poly-victimization, multiple forms of violence are often experienced simultaneously — especially among racial/ethnic minoritized and socioeconomically disadvantaged college students.

STAR*PR (Study on Trauma, Adversity, and Resilience in Puerto Rico) will recruit 250 college students at a university in Puerto Rico to complete an online survey assessing victimization, discrimination, mental health, academic performance, and resilience factors.

The study aims to:
1) Investigate rates of violence and discrimination exposure.
2) Assess impacts on academic performance (e.g., GPA, engagement).
3) Assess impacts on mental health and self-esteem.
4) Identify protective factors and coping strategies.

Findings will provide valuable insight into the lived experiences of Puerto Rican students and help guide targeted interventions that promote resilience and well-being.

Research Team

Principal Investigator (PI): Dr. Andrea Medrano, University of Pittsburgh.

Co-Principal Investigator (Co-PI): Dr. Irmarie Cruz-Lopez, University of Puerto Rico.