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Determinants of Psychological Help-Seeking Intentions of University Students in Ghana

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Abstract

Non-utilization of mental health resources is a well-documented problem among adolescents and young adults. However, little is known about the psychological help-seeking intentions of young adults in Ghana. The aim of this study was to examine the predictors of psychological help-seeking intentions among university students in Accra, Ghana (N = 270). Using a cross-sectional survey, data was collected using standardised questionnaires (Attitudes Toward Seeking Professional Psychological Help Scale [ATSPPH], Self-Stigma of Seeking Help [SSOSH], Social Stigma of Receiving Psychological Help Scale [SSRPH] and Perceived Social Support [MSPSS]) from students in a public university on the determinants of intentions of seeking psychological help. Data was analyzed using standard multiple regression. Results indicated that for this population, the intention of seeking psychological help was moderate, but varied according to the year of study. Out of the four (4) predictors, ATSPPH, SSOSH and Perceived Social Support significantly predicted intentions to seeking psychological help. Key findings and practical implications for research and psychological interventions are discussed.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Faculty of Health and Social Science, Sør- Trøndelag University College (HiST), 7004, Trondheim, Norway

    Johnny Andoh–Arthur

  2. Department of Psychology, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana

    Johnny Andoh–Arthur & Joseph Osafo

  3. Discipline of Psychology, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Howard College Campus, Durban, 4041, South Africa

    Kwaku Oppong Asante

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  1. Johnny Andoh–Arthur
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  2. Kwaku Oppong Asante
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  3. Joseph Osafo
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Correspondence to Johnny Andoh–Arthur.

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Andoh–Arthur, J., Oppong Asante, K. & Osafo, J. Determinants of Psychological Help-Seeking Intentions of University Students in Ghana. Int J Adv Counselling 37, 330–345 (2015). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10447-015-9247-2

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