A perspective on Judaism and mental health

Includes bibliographical references (leaves 42-49)This study examines the attitudes Jewish adults have towards psychological difficulties and mental health treatment, with regards to religious affiliation in terms of belief and ritual. The study reviews the literature related to culture, religion and stigma in a general sense, as well as how it specifically relates to the population in question. A 24 item survey was developed and administered to 245 participants via surveymonkey.com. Respondents included Jews who identifY across the spectrum of religious affiliation. Results were statistically significant, and demonstrated a minimal inverse correlation between constructs of religiosity and stigma. The statistical analysis revealed that participants who rated higher on religiosity, both overall and on sub-categories of ritual and belief, had higher levels of stigma with regards to attitudes towards mental health treatment as well as concerning the source of the treatment