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Explanatory models of major depression and implications for help-seeking among immigrant Chinese-American women

Abstract

This study explores the explanatory models of major depression in a group of 40 recently immigrated Chinese-American women, and demonstrates the significant relationship between problem conceptualization and help-seeking behavior. Respondents are presented a vignette depicting major depression, from which they are asked to conceptualize the problem described and answer questions regarding its cause, impact and potential sources for help-seeking. Those who provide a psychological conceptualization are likely not to suggest professional services, but to turn to themselves and family and friends for assistance. On the other hand, those who hold a physical conceptualization are likely to seek out medical services. Implications for effective mental health service delivery to this population are discussed.

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Ying, YW. Explanatory models of major depression and implications for help-seeking among immigrant Chinese-American women. Cult Med Psych 14, 393–408 (1990). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00117563

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Keywords

  • Mental Health
  • Health Service
  • Significant Relationship
  • Mental Health Service
  • Major Depression