Stigma processes, psychological distress, and attitudes toward seeking treatment among pedohebephilic people.

ABSTRACT: While stigma theories predict that stigma relates to negative attitudes toward seeking help, previous studies found mixed results among pedohebephilic individuals. We tested whether different stigma processes (i.e., general anticipated stigma, anticipation of negative therapist behavior upon disclosure, and internalized stigma), psychological distress, previous treatment experiences, and knowledge about psychotherapy can clarify attitudes toward seeking professional psychological help for this population. We conducted a pre-registered, online survey of English-speaking pedohebephilic individuals (N = 283, 88% male). Expected links between variables of interest and attitudes toward seeking treatment were assessed via structural equation modeling. After modification, the final model showed a

SUBMITTER: Jahnke S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11500907 | biostudies-literature | 2024

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature