Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Self-stigma occurs when an individual internalizes and accepts the stereotypes and negative views of mental illness endorsed by the public. High levels of self-stigma negatively predict treatment-seeking intention, but little work has examined how self-stigma functions specifically among individuals with tendencies toward impulsivity. METHODS: The current study implemented structural equation modeling (SEM) to investigate whether self-stigma as operationalized by the MHSIS model mediated the relationship between externalizing proneness and the intention to seek mental health treatment. Data were collected from community participants (N = 394) preselected for the presence of impulse control problems (e.g., ADHD, alcohol use) and mental health concerns. RESULTS: Externalizing was weakly negatively associated with the intention to seek treatment. Externalizing proneness was associated with higher levels of self-stigma, particularly at the later stages (i.e., application); however, self-stigma did not appear to mediate the association between externalizing and reduced treatment seeking intention. DISCUSSION: This study informs how self-stigma exists across the externalizing spectrum and may serve as a transdiagnostic target for intervention.