Final answer:
The psychic costs of college, which encompass the mental and emotional toll of attending college, are typically lowest for students with high abilities due to less stress and more support. In contrast, students from poor backgrounds and those with average or low abilities may face higher psychic costs.
Step-by-step explanation:
The psychic costs of college, which can be considered the mental and emotional toll associated with attending college, are generally lowest for students with relatively high ability. This is because these students are more likely to find academic work less stressful, have more confidence in their academic abilities, and often receive more institutional support, scholarships, or recognition that can mitigate stress and financial burdens.
On the other hand, students from poor backgrounds may face significant stress due to financial concerns and possibly the added pressure of being the first in their family to attend college. Students with average or low academic ability may struggle with coursework, leading to higher psychic costs. Finally, students who are at the margin of attending college may experience anxiety and uncertainty about their decision, which could increase psychic costs.