Degree Date

4-2020

Document Type

Dissertation - Public Access

Degree Name

Psy.D. Doctor of Clinical Psychology

Academic Discipline

Clinical Psychology - Florida School of Professional Psychology

First Advisor

Patricia Dixon, Psy.D.

Second Advisor

Gary Howell, Psy.D.

Abstract

This empirical study assessed common attitudes and beliefs toward mental health services in the varying denominations of Christian churches. Specifically, the objective of this study was to identify the effects of Christian denomination on attitudes toward seeking mental health treatment and to identify whether there are racial and age differences that also impact those attitudes within the church. The study sought to answer the following questions: (a) What is the difference in attitudes and beliefs between different races toward mental health services in the church among Christians? (b) Is there an age difference in attitudes and beliefs toward mental health services in the church among Christians? (c), Is there a difference in Christian denomination and attitudes/beliefs toward mental health services in the church? and (d) Will there be a difference among individuals with higher versus lower levels of spirituality regarding mental-health-seeking behaviors within the church? The sample consisted of 232 adults ranging from 18 to 74 years old instructed to complete the Mental Health Seeking Attitudes, the Attitudes Toward Seeking Professional Psychological Help, and the Spiritual Health Inventory. Data were analyzed using two-way between-group analysis of variance to address research questions one and two. A one-way between-group analysis of variance was conducted for the third hypothesis, and a multivariate analysis of variance was used to address the fourth research question. Results did not support the hypotheses of the study. However, implications for these results as well as possible future directions are discussed.

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