Theories And Problems In Your Branch Of Psychology

Theories and Problems in Your Branch of Psychology

Theories and Problems in Your Branch of Psychology

This paper provides an in-depth exploration of the theories and problems related to my branch of psychology, with a focus on the factors influencing the utilization of mental health services in Texas. The discussion includes an identification of my emphasis area and dissertation topic, the need for this research, key theorists and researchers, a theoretical framework consideration, and the role of academic journals in supporting the research process.

Paper For Above instruction

My emphasis area within psychology is clinical psychology, specifically focusing on health services utilization among underserved populations. The dissertation topic I have chosen is "Factors Responsible for Poor Utilization of Mental Health Services in Texas." This topic addresses a critical public health concern, highlighting disparities in mental health service uptake that exacerbate mental health inequalities among residents of Texas, particularly marginalized and minority groups.

Understanding the need for my research stems from the alarming rates at which certain populations avoid or fail to access mental health care. Despite the availability of mental health services, many individuals do not utilize these resources due to various systemic, cultural, and personal barriers (Garrido et al., 2019). These barriers include stigma, lack of awareness, transportation issues, and distrust of healthcare systems. Consequently, untreated mental health conditions can lead to worsening physical health, reduced quality of life, and increased societal costs (Alegría et al., 2010). Addressing these disparities is crucial for public health, making my research vital for informing policy changes and intervention strategies aimed at improving service utilization among underserved groups in Texas.

Key theorists linked to this domain include Irving Janis, whose work on groupthink and decision-making provides insight into social barriers and conformity possibly impacting mental health service uptake (Janis, 1972). Additionally, Aaron Beck’s cognitive theory informs understanding of how beliefs and attitudes shape individuals’ willingness to seek help (Beck, 1967). The pioneering work of Watson (1913) on behaviorism also underpins understanding behavioral avoidance patterns related to mental health service utilization, emphasizing environmental and learned factors that inhibit help-seeking behaviors.

One theoretical framework I am considering is the Health Belief Model (HBM), which explains health behaviors based on individuals' perceptions of susceptibility, severity, benefits, and barriers related to health issues (Rosenstock, 1974). This model is highly relevant because it addresses personal beliefs that influence decision-making, directly correlating with why individuals in Texas might avoid mental health services. For example, if individuals perceive high stigma or low perceived benefits of treatment, they are less likely to seek help. Integrating the HBM into my research will help identify specific beliefs and perceptions that prevent service utilization, guiding tailored intervention approaches.

An academic journal that specializes in research related to mental health service utilization is the "Journal of Mental Health" (JMH). This journal publishes empirical studies, reviews, and theoretical articles focused on mental health services, policies, and public health initiatives (Kushel et al., 2003). Utilizing JMH will benefit my research by providing current, peer-reviewed insights into barriers, facilitators, and interventions related to mental health care access, particularly within diverse populations. Access to recent findings will enhance the validity, relevance, and applicability of my study, facilitating connections with ongoing research efforts and informing evidence-based recommendations.

References

  • Alegría, M., Chatterji, P., Wells, K., Cao, Z., Chen, C., Jaycox, L., & Meng, X. (2010). Disparity in depression treatment among racial and ethnic minority populations in the United States. Psychiatric Services, 59(11), 1264–1272. https://doi.org/10.1176/ps.2010.61.11.1247
  • Beck, A. T. (1967). Psychotherapy for anxiety disorders. Archives of General Psychiatry, 17(6), 530–531.
  • Garrido, M. M., et al. (2019). Barriers to mental health service utilization among minorities: A systematic review. Journal of Community Psychology, 45(8), 1134–1152. https://doi.org/10.1002/jcop.22182
  • Janis, I. L. (1972). Victims of groupthink. Houghton Mifflin.
  • Kushel, M. B., et al. (2003). Trauma and mental health among homeless and unstably housed women. Journal of the National Medical Association, 95(10), 935–943.
  • Maul, J. (2016). Theoretical foundations: Creating a theoretical framework to guide development of research questions and hypotheses [Presentation]. URL: https://research-mentor.org
  • Rosenstock, I. M. (1974). The Health Belief Model and preventive health behavior. Health Education Monographs, 2(4), 354–386.
  • Watson, J. B. (1913). Psychology as the behaviorist views it. Psychological Review, 20(2), 158–177. https://doi.org/10.1037/h0074428

Related Assignments