Date of Submission

2017

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)

Department

Psychology

Department Chair

Robert A DiTomasso, PhD, ABPP

Abstract

There is a plethora of literature on the formation and prevalence on mental health stigma; however, literature on anti-stigma programs is scarce. The current mixed method study evaluated an anti-stigma program for medical students that contained a peer testimony component. A total of 25 participants were included in the quantitative component of the study. Data were collected over 3 consecutive years. All participants attended the Student Mental Health Initiative (SMHI) and completed a pre- and post-survey examining stigmatizing beliefs and negative attitudes toward mental illness. The qualitative portion of the study was a focus group with two participants who examined the strengths and weaknesses of the event. Results indicated there was a significant difference in negative attitudes across mental illnesses. Results approached significance for attitude change. These results are likely due to low sample size, which lacked statistical power. Limitations and future directions are discussed.

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