College Students' Perceptions of the Advantages and Disadvantages of Obtaining Psychotherapy

147 college students completed questionnaires which assessed their perceptions of the advantages and disadvantages of seeking professional psychological help for a depressed condition. They were also asked to indicate those groups or individuals they felt would approve and those who would disapprove of seeking such help. Results indicate that expenditures of time and money were perceived as most disadvantageous, followed by both stigma and the necessity of confronting painful issues. Most frequently cited advantages were problem resolution and understanding the causes of the depression. Most students saw family and friends as approving of help-seeking behavior while acquaintances were perceived as disapproving. Responses of students who have sought help in the past are compared to responses of students who have never sought help. These attitudes and beliefs are discussed in terms of their value as gauges of the needs and expectations of present and potential mental health consumers.