Date of Graduation

Spring 5-17-2019

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology (PsyD)

College/School

School of Nursing and Health Professions

Department

Psychology

Program

Clinical Psychology (PsyD)

First Advisor

Dr. Dellanira Garcia

Second Advisor

Dr. Albert V. Meza

Third Advisor

Dr. Brent Richard Ferm

Abstract

This study examined the role of stigma on mental health service-seeking among Armenian-American men who self-identified as having lived through or currently are living with a mental health issue. This qualitative study utilized interpretive phenomenological analysis to ensure that the lived experiences of Armenian-American men are represented through their perspective. A total of six participants engaged in this study. All participants self-identified as male and as having experienced a mental health issue, have utilized mental health services at least once in their lifetime, resided in the San Francisco Bay Area, and as being of Armenian descent. Through exploring the lived experiences and reflections of participants in this study, several themes and sub-themes emerged. These themes included stigma, mental health treatment, gender views, and moving forward to decrease stigma. As expected, stigma emanating from the Armenian community was seen to be a deterrent to seeking mental health services. Furthermore, the role of felt stigma appeared to serve as a significant barrier. Negative views of self and cognitive distortions influenced participants’ decisions to pursue mental health services. This study found various factors, such as cultural beliefs and values, socio-economic status, a lack of understanding of mental health issues and resource availability as potential barriers for service-seeking behaviors amongst Armenian-American men.

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