Date of Conferral

2-25-2025

Degree

Doctor of Human Services (D.H.S.)

School

Human Services

Advisor

Jacqueline Cook-Jones

Abstract

Nigerian immigrants in the United States face significant challenges in accessing mental health care due to various cultural and systemic barriers. This generic qualitative study, guided by Vygotsky’s sociocultural theory, was conducted to explore the barriers encountered by Nigerian community members in seeking mental health treatment in the United States. Data were obtained through semistructured interviews where nine Nigerian immigrants presented their perceptions and experiences concerning barriers to Nigerian community members seeking mental health treatment in the United States. Thematic analysis followed the six-step data analysis method, leading to three themes. The themes identified are: (a) mental health is a prominent concern for members of the Nigerian community, and they face stigma and prejudice within the system; (b) individuals want to seek and use services, but stigma from within the community is a deterrent, and (c) the meaning of the mental health experience for Nigerian immigrants in the United States involves first acknowledging the need for help and then creating a community that fosters help-seeking. This study can lead to positive social change by informing policy and practice recommendations, such as the hiring and training of culturally competent psychologists. It also relates to the social determinants of health by addressing the cultural and systemic factors influencing the health outcomes of Nigerian immigrants.

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