Examining the Relationship Between Acculturation Levels, Help-Seeking Attitudes, And Self-Stigma Perspectives Among International Students

Abstract

This study addresses a crucial gap in understanding mental health help-seeking attitudes among international graduate counseling students (ICS) in the U.S., despite facing significant acculturation stress. Research on their help-seeking attitudes and self-stigma is limited among ICS. Understanding these factors is vital for supporting their well-being and their future roles as mental health professionals. Grounded in the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), this study examined the relationships between acculturation level, help-seeking attitude, and self-stigma. The findings revealed a strong direct correlation between acculturation level and help-seeking attitude, suggesting that higher acculturation levels are linked to more positive attitudes toward mental health services. A moderate direct correlation was also found between acculturation level and self-stigma, indicating an increase in self-stigma with higher acculturation stress. These insights highlight the need for targeted support for ICS.