Identifying the Cultural and Contextual Barriers to Help-Seeking Behavior for Mental Health in Adolescents
Keywords:
adolescents, mental health, help-seeking behavior, cultural barriers, stigmaAbstract
Objective: This study aimed to explore and identify the cultural, interpersonal, and structural barriers that influence help-seeking behavior for mental health among adolescents in Taiwan.
Methods and Materials: A qualitative research design was employed, using semi-structured individual interviews to capture adolescents’ experiences and perspectives on help-seeking for mental health concerns. Participants were 24 adolescents aged 13–18 years, recruited through purposive sampling from urban and suburban areas of Taiwan. Inclusion criteria included current school enrollment, fluency in Mandarin Chinese, and willingness to discuss mental health experiences. Data collection continued until theoretical saturation was achieved. Interviews lasted 45–75 minutes and were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and translated into English for analysis. Thematic analysis was conducted following Braun and Clarke’s six-step process, using NVivo 14 software to facilitate coding and theme development. Trustworthiness was enhanced through member checking, peer debriefing, and maintaining an audit trail.
Findings: Analysis revealed three main themes: (1) Cultural Norms and Stigma, encompassing fear of losing face, stigmatization of mental illness, beliefs in self-reliance, filial piety, preference for traditional healing, and a silence culture in schools; (2) Interpersonal and Family Dynamics, including parental misunderstanding, lack of emotional support, communication barriers, peer pressure, and overprotective parenting; and (3) Structural and Accessibility
Conclusion: Help-seeking behavior among Taiwanese adolescents is shaped by intersecting cultural, relational, and systemic barriers that require culturally grounded, multi-level interventions. Addressing stigma, enhancing parental and school support, improving service accessibility, and integrating culturally relevant practices are essential for improving adolescent mental health outcomes in this context.
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