Examining Differences in Socialization Opportunities among Student Work Groups in a University Recreation Department

Abstract

This study contributes to the limited knowledge on university recreation and student affairs part-time student employment programs, and how this experience can promote student development. The research examines differences in socialization opportunities perceived by student employees of a campus recreation department. Socialization was measured using group cohesion (a measure of the individual's attachment to the group). Analysis determined that African American student employees perceived a significantly lower overall level of cohesion compared with Caucasian and Hispanic student employees. In addition, students working in program areas that required less interdependence and limited ongoing training perceived significantly lower levels of cohesion compared with student employees working in positions that required regular in-service training and job-task interdependence. The authors discuss implications of the findings, recommendations for student development professionals, and suggestions for future research.