The purpose of this study was to identify occupational therapy student stress levels and determine factors influencing this emotional response. The study also sought to obtain the perspective of occupational therapy professors on this issue. This mixed-methods study utilized an online quantitative descriptive survey and a telephone or face-to-face qualitative open-ended interview. Online survey respondents included a nationwide sample of 340 occupational therapy professors and 459 occupational therapy students. Additionally, nine professors and five students served as the interviewees. All professors were certified by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) and employed either full or part time as instructors in an Accreditation Council of Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) accredited entry level Master of Science or entry level doctoral educational program. All students were enrolled in an ACOTE accredited entry level master's or entry level occupational therapy doctoral degree program. Findings demonstrated high stress levels in students caused by personal, financial, and academic pressures. Professors acknowledged student stress; however, the results indicated the need for enhanced understanding and communication regarding student stress. Students may benefit from more intense counseling and stress reduction measures. Additionally, professors and universities may need to enhance existing support systems for students. Professors are advised to be attuned to student stress levels and may need to adjust academic requirements accordingly. Further research is needed to determine avenues for diminishing student stress.

Date Presented 03/28/20 The purpose of this mixed-methods study was to explore how OT students and professors view student stress caused by curricular requirements. Quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews were used to gather their perspectives. Both students and professors identified moderate to high levels of student stress affecting student relationships and well-being and suggested the need for educator awareness and curricular modification for remediation of this challenging problem. Primary Author and Speaker: Grace Fisher Additional Authors and Speakers: Jessica Grab, Meghan Long, Julianna Norris, Kristin Pilchik

Date Presented Accepted for AOTA INSPIRE 2021 but unable to be presented due to online event limitations. This mixed-methods study sought to determine OT student and professor perceptions of factors influencing student stress. An online quantitative descriptive survey and open-ended interviews indicated high student stress levels. Stress was heightened by personal, financial, and academic pressures. Recommendations include enhanced communication between professors and students, adjustment of academic requirements, stress reduction instruction, and increased counseling services. Primary Author and Speaker: Grace Fisher Additional Authors and Speakers: Jessica Grab, Meghan Long, Julianna Norris, and Kristen Pilchik