Understanding Mental Health Stigma (Research Assignment)
Course: Introduction to Psychology (PSY 131)
Total Points: 50
Assignment Overview
In this assignment, you will explore mental health stigmawhat it means, how it affects people, and how it relates to various mental health conditions and identities.
Definition of Stigma
Stigma refers to the negative stereotypes, prejudices, and discrimination directed at individuals or groups based on a perceived differencesuch as having a mental illness. Stigma can be public (social), self-stigma (internalized), or institutional (systemic) and often leads to barriers in treatment, employment, housing, and social relationships.
Your Task (Answer in 35 pages not including Title Page), APA style, Times New Roman, 12 font, double-spaced):
- Choose one mental health topic and describe what can be done to reduce stigma in that area (e.g., education, media reform, personal contact, advocacy). Include a brief explanation of the topic, how stigma appears, and what strategies can improve understanding or acceptance.
Suggested Topics with Stigma (Choose one):
- Depression
- Anxiety disorders
- Schizophrenia
- Bipolar disorder
- Substance use disorder
- Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Eating disorders (e.g., anorexia, bulimia)
- Suicide and suicidal ideation
- ADHD in adults
- Mental health in LGBTQ+ communities
- Incarcerated individuals with mental illness
- Veterans with trauma-related conditions
- Mental illness in communities of color
Grading Rubric (50 points total):
|
Criteria |
Points |
Description |
|
Topic Explanation |
15 pts |
Clear explanation of the selected mental health topic and related stigma |
|
Strategies to Reduce Stigma |
20 pts |
Thoughtful and realistic discussion of how stigma can be reduced |
|
Organization, Grammar, and Clarity |
10 pts |
Well-written, logically organized, minimal errors |
|
Effort and Depth of Thought |
5 pts |
Demonstrates critical thinking and personal insight |
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