Evaluation of Factors Affecting Attitudes of Muslim Americans: Toward Seeking and Using Formal Mental Health Services

This study investigated the effects of four independent variables-cultural beliefs about mental health; knowledge and familiarity with mental health problems, services, and providers; shame and stigma associated with mental health; and help-seeking preferences-on the attitudes of Muslim Americans toward formal mental health services. Data was collected in September 2011 via paper surveys given out at a national conference and through online data collection. The results of multiple regression analysis on 166 participants indicated that more favorable attitudes toward seeking and using formal mental health services are correlated with less cultural beliefs, more perception of shame, more knowledge and familiarity with formal services; and higher preference for formal help resources. Implications of the findings are discussed.