understanding mental health

Post ID: 3514452

Overview

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 stigma—what 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 difference—such 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 3–5 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