Abstract
The purpose of this study is to examine mental health stigma within the sociocultural context shared by members of the Panamanian population. Mental health stigma is complex because it manifests itself differently according to the cultural context in which it is experienced. Culture informs individual beliefs, behaviors, and attitudes regarding how a person should live within their immediate household and within society. This social conditioning is accomplished through a variety of means, including the passing down of social norms, traditions, and customs. Ultimately, these cultural characteristics encourage socially acceptable behaviors while simultaneously discouraging undesirable behaviors in order to maintain group norms. Mental health stigma has been identified as a prevalent feature of the Panamanian community. Therefore, this study seeks to understand how Panamanian culture in particular contributes to the development and perpetuation of mental health stigma among Panamanians. In order to study mental health stigma within this community, Panamanians from the tri-state area over the age of 18 were surveyed and interviewed to gain a better understanding of how cultural norms influence discussions surrounding mental health and willingness to access support services.
Recommended Citation
Sanders, Arielle
(2023)
"Mental Health Stigma as a Sociocultural Complex Within Panamanian Culture,"
Journal of Vincentian Social Action: Vol. 7:
Iss.
2, Article 5.
Available at:
https://scholar.stjohns.edu/jovsa/vol7/iss2/5
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