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Parent-reported stigma and child anxiety: a mixed methods research study
- Authors:
- CHAVIRA Denise A., et al
- Journal article citation:
- Children and Youth Services Review, 76, 2017, pp.237-242.
- Publisher:
- Elsevier
Background: Stigma has been frequently cited as a barrier to service use for various mental health problems. Studies suggest that stigma may be greater for childhood mental health problems that are perceived as more atypical. Aims: This study utilised a mixed methods research design (qual + QUAN) to examine parental endorsement of stigma and its impact on service utilisation among children with significant anxiety—a common childhood problem frequently perceived as normative. Methods: Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with 29 parents of anxious children. Qualitative data were coded using a grounded theory approach, and stigma-related responses were examined for emergent themes. Quantitative data was analysed with frequency counts and chi-square analysis. Results: Stigma related to children's anxiety symptoms and seeking mental health services was reported by 41.3% (n = 12) of parents. Emergent themes included: 1) Parental Concern for Negative Consequences, 2) Parent Internalised Stigma, and 3) Negative Associations with Mental Health Treatment. Latino parents discussed stigma more frequently than non-Latino White parents (70% vs. 17.6%, respectively, X2(1, N = 27) = 5.33, p < 0.05). Conclusions: Although anxiety is a common childhood problem, stigma is still frequently reported by parents and may be an important barrier to mental health service use, especially among Latino youth. (Edited publisher abstract)