Exploring socio-psychological factors that contribute to the persistence of mental health stigma among adolescents in China

Abstract

In China negative attitudes of society towards adolescents with mental illness and the young who are suffering from it themselves create substantial barriers to the access to support and services that are much needed. The research aims to map the psychological processes that reinforce the stigma within the social and cross-cultural context, with the emphasis on culture, family and government. Employing the cross-sectional survey design, focusing on the age bracket of 12-20 years old, the research investigates the effects of family structure as well as traditional mentalities on understanding mental illness, and how policies and social structures affect the stigma. The outcomes are expected to assist in addressing some of the issues above and assist in progress in tangible steps to bring about reduced stigma. The study thus reinforces the advancement of culturally appropriate inclusive strategies that would help improve the mental wellbeing of adolescents in China.