Date of Conferral

2022

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Psychology

Advisor

Susan H. Marcus

Abstract

American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) persons have been identified as a group with greater risk for transgenerational trauma; furthermore, they experience environmental, systemic, and pragmatic barriers to treatment for mental and social issues. Researchers have called for more studies of groups like AI/AN to better understand the complex social, interpersonal, and intrapersonal problems involved in accessing and using mental health services. The purpose of this study was to examine the predictive relationships of demographics, transgenerational trauma, locus of control, and stigma on help-seeking and use of mental health services in the AI/AN population in a quantitative study. The developmentally based trauma framework was chosen as the conceptual framework and theory of planned behavior was chosen as the theoretical framework for this study. A correlational survey research design using a quota sampling strategy was employed. The predictors included demographics, transgenerational trauma, stigma, and locus of control. The criterion variables included attitude towards help-seeking, intention to seek help, and use of mental health services. A hierarchical multiple linear regression analysis plan was implemented. Findings were nonsignificant for all predictors except the measure of transgenerational trauma. Limitations regarding the challenges of working with the AI/AN population and conducting survey research during extraordinary external circumstances (the Covid 19 pandemic) are discussed. Although the findings were non-significant, the results point to research methods that are innovative and culturally relevant to support better response rates and integrate with positive social change for vulnerable populations like AI/AN.

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