Exploring the Complexities: Self-Stigma, Perception of Abuse, and Professional Psychological Help-Seeking Among Female Survivors of Dating Violence in Indonesia

Abstract

The number of cases of dating violence (DV) in Indonesia is rising annually. Physical harm, depression, anxiety disorders, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), low self-esteem, and dissatisfaction with relationships are among the risks that survivors encounter. Despite this, studies have shown that many survivors do not immediately access professional psychological help. They typically regard professional mental health services less favorably. This study explored the role of the self-stigma and perception of abuse in attitudes toward seeking professional psychological help. It used three scales, namely the Attitudes Toward Seeking Professional Psychological Help (ATSPPH-SF) scale, the Self-Stigma of Seeking Help (SSOSH) scale, and the Abusive Behavior Inventory - Revised (ABI-R). A total 238 of women who had experienced DV participated. The results showed that self-stigma towards professional psychological help significantly predicted attitude towards seeking professional psychological help. Additionally, hierarchical regression revealed that knowledge related to psychological services predicted attitude toward seeking professional psychological help. However, age, education background, experience using psychological services, and perception of abuse did not have a significant effect.