The Social Psychology of Help Seeking

Question 1

Describe the four steps of the “process of seeking treatment model.”

Answer 1

-Recognizing the problem
-Deciding that change is needed
-Deciding to seek formal treatment
-Contacting the mental health system

Question 2

Describe the five stages of the “stages of change model.”

Answer 2

1) Precontemplation
Not yet acknowledging that there is a problem behavior that needs to be changed

2) Contemplation
Acknowledging there is a problem, but not ready or not sure if one wants to make a change

3) Preparation
Getting ready to make a change

4) Action
Changing behavior

5) Maintenance
Maintaining the behavior change

Question 3

What is known about the relationship between gender and seeking help for mental disorders?

Answer 3

-Women are more likely than men to seek help
-Women use more health services overall
-Women are more likely to report mental health symptoms
-Perceive a need for help mentally
-Have favorable attitudes towards psychological help

Interestingly enough, when experiencing emotional distress…
-Women are more likely to visit a general practitioner
-Men are more likely to visit a mental health care professional
-Other variables must be considered