Exploring the relation between attitudes towards accessing e-therapy and self-stigma of seeking help among university students

Abstract

Two major elements affect one’s decision to seek the necessary help, namely: one’s attitudes towards accessing e-therapy and the level of self-stigma of seeking help. The aim of this research is to investigate the attitudes of university students towards e-therapy and their self-stigma when seeking professional psychological help. Quantitative methodology was employed, using an online questionnaire having two scales: the E-therapy Attitude Scale (EAS) and the Self-Stigma of Seeking Help scale (SSOSH). All participants (N = 120) were recruited using convenience sampling, through the University of Malta website (eSims). An information sheet and a consent form were provided to all participants prior to self-recruiting. Results were then analysed using Microsoft Excel® and IBM® SPSS. Findings revealed a negative correlation between university students’ attitudes towards accessing etherapy and the level of self-stigma of seeking help. Therefore, when levels of self-stigma of seeking help are low, the attitudes toward accessing e-therapy are more likely to be supportive. This study also revealed difference in attitudes between genders and faculty groups. Findings contrasted earlier research, whereby the majority of participants seemed to exhibit lower levels of self-stigma of seeking help and a more supportive attitudes towards accessing e-therapy. Implications for this study include: emphasising the impact that learning has on the mentality of students concerning mental health in educational establishments; this study shows that newer generations demonstrate a more positive attitude toward seeking psychological help, compared to studies concerning earlier generations; a discussion about what is currently acceptable within society would be beneficial for students’ mentality to change around the subject of seeking help and seeking therapy.