Culture and Mental Health
Advisor(s)
Kevin Kusy; Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy
Discipline
Business
Start Date
21-4-2021 10:25 AM
End Date
21-4-2021 10:40 AM
Abstract
Mental health can be affected by a combination of biological, environmental and psychological factors. This paper is a literature review focusing on if and how culture affects the mental health of those between the ages of thirteen and nineteen in the United States. There are many ways in which culture shows its influence. In some cultures, there are certain stigmas about mental health so people within that culture do not seek help. Additionally, cultures differ in the level of concern they give to mental illness. Every culture has its own way of making sense of an understanding of one’s mental health. Each has its opinion on whether mental illness is real or imagined, who is at risk for it, what might cause it, and the level of stigma surrounding it. Cultural factors often determine how much support people have from their families and communities in seeking help. This paper will explore the different factors that contribute to a teen’s mental health as well as the stigma surrounding mental health in different cultures.
Culture and Mental Health
Mental health can be affected by a combination of biological, environmental and psychological factors. This paper is a literature review focusing on if and how culture affects the mental health of those between the ages of thirteen and nineteen in the United States. There are many ways in which culture shows its influence. In some cultures, there are certain stigmas about mental health so people within that culture do not seek help. Additionally, cultures differ in the level of concern they give to mental illness. Every culture has its own way of making sense of an understanding of one’s mental health. Each has its opinion on whether mental illness is real or imagined, who is at risk for it, what might cause it, and the level of stigma surrounding it. Cultural factors often determine how much support people have from their families and communities in seeking help. This paper will explore the different factors that contribute to a teen’s mental health as well as the stigma surrounding mental health in different cultures.