Why bother? The moderating effect of social cynicism on the relationship between self-stigma and attitudes towards mental health help-seeking

In this study, cynicism was proposed as a possible factor that could negatively influence a persons help-seeking attitudes. A moderating effect was expected, in that cynicism could worsen the negative effect of self-stigma on help-seeking attitudes. This study obtained data from 200 participants, aged 18 to 25. Participant responses were obtained through distribution of hard copies of the survey, as well as through online surveys. The results obtained validated the negative relationship between self-stigma and help-seeking attitudes. Cynicism failed to act as a predictor for help-seeking, and the expected interaction between cynicism and self-stigma proved insignificant. A significant correlation was still found between self-stigma, cynicism, and control variables, which prompted further analysis to understand the dynamics of these constructs. Post-hoc analysis showed that cynicism has an indirect effect on help-seeking through self-criticism and self-stigma. Prior consult with a therapist was also found to improve help-seeking attitudes, and psychology majors suffer from less self-stigma than the general population. Results of the post-hoc analysis show how cynical individuals, a group that is already more vulnerable to depression and anxiety, are more likely to suffer from self-stigma, and less likely to seek help in times of need