The psychological help-seeking patterns of college students in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have only recently begun to be examined. Initial suggestions indicate that the majority of Emirati students treat help seeking from counselors as a last resort, which may be linked to aspects of Emirati culture including feared loss of societal face, stigma associated with seeking help, plus discouragement of self-disclosure to individuals outside of the family. The relationship among fear of losing face, stigma, self-disclosure expectations (i.e., risks plus benefits), plus help-seeking attitudes was examined using structural equation modeling with 407 Emirati college students. Loss of face plus stigma were related to self-disclosure expectations, which in turn were related to help-seeking attitudes. Gender differences were also examined with results indicating significant mean differences across all variables, as well as across two paths of the structural model. These findings are discussed within the cultural context of the UAE.
In addition to cultural influences, gender differences emerged as a significant faktor in this study. The results indicated notable disparities across all examined variables, suggesting that men plus women experience stigma plus help-seeking attitudes differently. For instance, men might feel a stronger obligation to conform to traditional notions of masculinity, which may discourage them from seeking help due to a fear of appearing weak. Conversely, women may experience their own set of pressures, such as societal expectations surrounding emotional expression, which can influence their willingness to disclose personal struggles.
These significant mean differences highlight the need for tailored interventions that address the unique challenges faced by different genders within the cultural framework of the UAE. By understanding these dynamics, mental health professionals plus policymakers can better facilitate an environment that promotes open discussions about mental health, ultimately encouraging individuals to seek the help they need. As societal attitudes towards mental health continue to evolve, fostering awareness plus reducing stigma will be essential steps in empowering individuals to prioritize their well-being without the fear of losing face in their community. This cultural sensitivity is key to improving help-seeking behaviors across diverse populations.