Cross-National Comparison of Middle Eastern University Students: Help-Seeking Behaviors, Attitudes Toward Helping Professionals, and Cultural Beliefs About Mental Health Problems

Alean Al-Krenawi, John R. Graham, Eman A. Al-Bedah, Hafni Mahmud Kadri, Mahmud A. Sehwail

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

113 Scopus citations

Abstract

This study is the first to use identical data collection processes and instruments in Egypt, Kuwait, Palestine, and Israeli Arab communities regarding help-seeking behaviors and attitudes towards perceived cultural beliefs about mental health problems. Data is based on a survey sample of 716, undergraduate students in the 4 countries, 61% female and 39% male. Results indicate that respondents within the various countries, based on nationality, gender and level of education, vary in terms of recognition of personal need, beliefs about mental health problems (i.e. stigmatization), and the use of traditional healing methods versus modern approaches to psychiatric therapy. The conclusion discusses differences between our respondents' expectations and prevailing mental health service provision and delivery.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)26-36
Number of pages11
JournalCommunity Mental Health Journal
Volume45
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - 1 Feb 2009

Keywords

  • Arab communities
  • Mental health beliefs
  • Students

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Health(social science)
  • Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health
  • Psychiatry and Mental health

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Cross-National Comparison of Middle Eastern University Students: Help-Seeking Behaviors, Attitudes Toward Helping Professionals, and Cultural Beliefs About Mental Health Problems'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this