Date of Conferral
6-26-2025
Degree
Doctor of Public Health (DrPH)
School
Public Health
Advisor
Berthline Isma
Abstract
Despite being one of the fastest growing immigrant populations in the United States, South Asians experience disproportionately high rates of untreated mental health conditions while reporting low utilization of professional mental health services. This qualitative phenomenological study explored the cultural and structural barriers that influence mental-health-seeking behaviors among South Asians residing in Dallas, Texas. Guided by the health belief model and principles of cultural competency, this research investigated how perceived susceptibility, severity, benefits, barriers, cues to action, and self-efficacy intersect with cultural stigma, religious beliefs, generational dynamics, and systemic obstacles. Semistructured interviews with 12 South Asian adults revealed seven major themes: stigma and shame, faith-based interpretations of mental illness, generational differences, emotional repression, lack of culturally sensitive resources, community silence, and increasing openness among younger generations. Findings from thematic analysis suggested that mental health stigma is present at individual and communal levels and often deters help-seeking behavior due to fears of judgment and family dishonor. At the same time, emerging cultural shifts, particularly among second-generation individuals, offer new opportunities for culturally informed interventions. The study included targeted recommendations for public health practitioners, mental health providers, and community organizations to reduce disparities and improve culturally competent mental health care for South Asians.
Recommended Citation
Jose, Judith, "Cultural and Structural Barriers Influencing the Mental-Health-Seeking Behaviors of South Asians in Dallas, Texas" (2025). Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies. 18017.
https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/18017
