Tuesday, March 23, 2010

NEWS TIP: K-STATE PROFESSOR INVOLVED IN RESEARCH SUGGESTING THAT LESS PROMISING STUDENTS SHOULDN'T BE DETERRED FROM AIMING FOR HIGHER EDUCATION

MANHATTAN -- A Kansas State University professor was part of a study contradicting theories predicting that people who don't reach their educational goals are more likely to be depressed. Chardie Baird, a K-State assistant professor of sociology, and Florida State University's John Reynolds found that shortcomings -- like not finishing college -- don't take a long-term emotional toll. The researchers conclude that less promising students who aim for a college degree shouldn't be discouraged from trying to reach their goal. The study appeared in the American Sociological Review. Baird can be reached at 785-532-6865 or at cbaird@k-state.edu