Date of Award
Summer 8-20-2021
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts (MA)
Department/Program
Forensic Psychology
Language
English
First Advisor or Mentor
Philip Yanos
Second Reader
Joseph DeLuca
Third Advisor
Veronica Johnson
Abstract
There is evidence for the persistence of stigma towards people diagnosed with mental illness, as well as that endorsement of stigma is associated with reluctance to seek treatment. However, the process by which self-stigma impacts treatment choice amongst people with mental illness is not well understood. This study examined the impact of self-stigma on one’s decision to take medication or undergo psychotherapy; as well as the impact of stigma on choice of individual or group therapy. Surveys were administered through CloudResearch to 128 participants from the U.S, who reported a disorder diagnosed by a professional. The SSMIS-SF and ISMI-9 estimated self-stigma. The MHSAS and ATSPPH-SF distinguished attitudes towards help-seeking. Demographics were collected along with data related to treatment preference. Data were analyzed using correlations and ANOVA’s. Self-stigma was not related to treatment choice (medication, psychotherapy, or both). Men and women preferred psychotherapy and medication conjointly. Stigma didn't have an impact on attending psychotherapy but there was a significant difference between the attitudes scales and attendance of psychotherapy variable. Those who attended psychotherapy expressed more favorable attitudes. Men and women preferred individual therapy to group therapy. Negative correlations existed between self-stigma and attitudes. A significant difference appeared between the agree subscale and choices of psychotherapy. There was a statistically significant difference between the +/- treatment variable and ISMI-9 as well as with this variable and the MHSAS. Those with more negative views endorsed more stigma and less favorable attitudes. Generalizability was limited, therefore future studies should encompass a more diverse population.
Recommended Citation
Khan, Haya M., "Stigma Towards Treatment Amongst People with Mental Illness" (2021). CUNY Academic Works.
https://academicworks.cuny.edu/jj_etds/214