Honors College Theses

Publication Date

2024

Major

Psychology (B.S.)

Document Type and Release Option

Thesis (open access)

Faculty Mentor

Nicolette Rickert

Abstract

This study examined differences in mental health stigma, attitudes, and help-seeking behaviors between student-athletes and non-athletes. 8 student-athletes and 231 non-athletes from a rural college in southeastern USA took an online survey, and independent samples t-tests were conducted to examine group differences. There were no statistically significant differences in any measure between student-athletes and nonathletes. However, exploratory sex analyses found females had lower stigma and used services more frequently compared to males. Participants then explained any mental health resources they utilize, with most using ‘Personal Relationships’ when needed. ‘No need’, or participants who's mental health concerns were not significant enough to intervene, was the biggest factor for why certain individuals didn't utilize these resources. Limitations include a small sample size of student-athletes, as well as generalizability since the sample was overwhelmingly female and psychology majors. Future research should address these with a more representative sample. These findings stress the importance of gender-sensitive approaches and the role of personal relationships in mental health experiences.

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