Help-seeking attitudes of university students: The role of personality traits and demographic factors

Abstract

The current study examined the influences of personality traits, gender, previous counseling or therapy experiences, and knowledge about the psychological services provided on campus on the help-seeking attitudes of Turkish undergraduate students and their initial preferences for help sources. The students (N = 524) completed measures of attitudes toward help-seeking, personality traits, and demographic factors. Hierarchical linear regression indicated that the females, those who had knowledge about the psychological services provided on campus, and those who were extraverted, agreeable, and open had more positive help-seeking attitudes. Most of the students initially preferred sharing their problems/concerns with their peers. The findings are discussed in light of the relevant literature and were used to draw some implications for university counseling centres. © Psychological Society of South Africa. All rights reserved.