Date

5-2019

Document Type

Capstone Project (Open Access)

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

Department

Social, Behavioral & Global Studies

Major

Social and Behavioral Sciences

First Advisor

Yong Lao

Abstract

This study explores how an individual’s college academic success can be impacted by affiliation with a Greek organization. This research analyzes how Greek-affiliated students compare academically to non-Greek students, how the bonds between an individual and their Greek organization impact the academic success of the average individual, and the methods of academic support that Greek organizations provide to its members. Henri Tajfel’s Social Identity Theory is utilized as a framework of analysis. According to this theory, individuals who identify as being a member of a group adopt the behaviors and values of the group. Because Greek organizations implement some form of academic support for its members, this theory would explain how individuals can adopt the academically-inclined behaviors and values of their organization. Greek organizations were analyzed, and data was collected by administering a survey to Greek and non-Greek students at California State University Monterey Bay (CSUMB). Data shows that Greek-affiliated students do not perform as well academically as their non-Greek counterparts. However, an individual’s bond with their Greek organization has been shown to impact the academic performance of the individual.

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