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SANIYA PATIL
INDIVIDUAL SCALE
Beauty Contests Making Beauty Standards Even More Unachievable
INTRODUCTION:
In an age where social media and digital platforms dominate our interactions, the
concept of beauty has become increasingly complex and multifaceted. Beauty
contests, once celebrated as showcases of talent and grace, have evolved into
institutions that often reinforce narrow and unrealistic standards of attractiveness.
These contests, while ostensibly designed to celebrate beauty, frequently
perpetuate ideals that are not only unattainable for the average person but also
detrimental to societal perceptions of self-worth and identity. The glorification of
specific physical traits youth, slimness, and flawless skin creates a benchmark
that many women and men feel pressured to meet, leading to a myriad of
psychological and social consequences. The images presented in beauty contests
are meticulously curated, often involving extensive makeup, hairstyling, and even
surgical enhancements. Contestants are frequently subjected to rigorous training
regimens, strict diets, and the pressure to conform to a singular vision of beauty
that is heavily influenced by cultural and media narratives. This portrayal of
beauty is not merely a reflection of individual choice; it is a constructed ideal that
is disseminated through various forms of media, reinforcing the notion that
beauty is synonymous with specific physical attributes. Consequently, the
average person may find themselves grappling with feelings of inadequacy and
self-doubt, as they are bombarded with images of contestants who epitomize an
often unattainable standard. The psychological impact of these beauty ideals
cannot be overstated. Studies have shown that exposure to idealized images can
lead to body dissatisfaction, low self-esteem, and a host of mental health issues,
including anxiety and depression. Many individuals, particularly young girls and
women, internalize the belief that their worth is intrinsically tied to their
appearance. This fixation on physical beauty can overshadow the importance of
personal attributes such as intelligence, creativity, and kindness, which are
equally, if not more, valuable. The pressure to conform to these ideals can result
in harmful behaviors, including disordered eating, excessive exercise, and even
cosmetic surgery, as individuals strive to align themselves with a narrow
definition of beauty. Moreover, beauty contests often reinforce cultural
stereotypes and biases, marginalizing those who do not fit the conventional mold.
The representation of beauty in these contests tends to favour certain racial and
ethnic groups, body types, and age ranges, perpetuating a homogenized version
of attractiveness that excludes a vast array of human diversity. This exclusion
sends a damaging message to society at large, suggesting that beauty is a privilege
reserved for a select few, rather than a quality that can be found in all individuals,
regardless of their background or appearance. As we navigate a world
increasingly defined by visual representation, it is crucial to challenge these
entrenched norms and advocate for a broader, more inclusive understanding of
beauty. The rise of body positivity movements and diverse representation in
media offers a glimmer of hope, pushing back against the unrealistic standards
perpetuated by beauty contests. However, the journey toward a more inclusive
definition of beauty requires collective effort an acknowledgment that beauty is
not a one-size-fits-all concept but rather a rich tapestry of individuality and
authenticity. While beauty contests may be framed as platforms for empowerment
and celebration, they often contribute to a culture of unattainable beauty standards
that can have lasting negative effects on individuals and society. It is imperative
to recognize and address these issues, fostering a healthier, more inclusive
definition of beauty that values authenticity and diversity over superficial
appearances. Only then can we begin to dismantle the harmful ideals that have
long governed our perceptions of beauty and self-worth.
COMPONENTS:
LITERATURE REVIEW:
2. Naomi Wolf (2013)- The Beauty Myth: how images of beauty are used
against women
In her influential work, "The Beauty Myth: How Images of Beauty Are Used
Against Women," Naomi Wolf examines the pervasive and often detrimental
impact of beauty standards on women's lives. Published in 2013, Wolf's book
argues that societal ideals of beauty, propagated through media and culture, serve
as a powerful tool of oppression, reinforcing gender inequalities and limiting
women's potential. She contends that these standards are not merely aesthetic but
are deeply intertwined with social, political, and economic structures that seek to
control and define women's worth. By analyzing the ways in which images of
beauty are constructed and disseminated, Wolf critiques the unrealistic
expectations placed upon women, revealing how these ideals can lead to issues
such as body dissatisfaction, low self-esteem, and the commodification of female
identity. Ultimately, "The Beauty Myth" serves as a call to action, urging women
to challenge these harmful narratives and reclaim their power in defining beauty
on their own terms.
3. Roberta Pollack Seid (1989)- Never Too Thin: Why women are at war with
their bodies
In her groundbreaking book, "Never Too Thin: Why Women Are at War with
Their Bodies," published in 1989, Roberta Pollack Seid explores the complex
relationship between women and their bodies in a society that often promotes
unattainable beauty standards. Seid argues that cultural pressures and societal
expectations contribute to a pervasive war against women's bodies, leading to
issues such as disordered eating, body dissatisfaction, and a relentless pursuit of
thinness. Through a critical examination of the media, fashion, and health
industries, she highlights how these forces perpetuate unrealistic ideals that not
only affect women's self-image but also their overall well-being. By addressing
the psychological and social factors that fuel this conflict, Seid calls for a deeper
understanding of the cultural narratives surrounding body image and advocates
for a shift towards body positivity and self-acceptance. "Never Too Thin" serves
as a powerful commentary on the struggles women face in navigating a world
that often prioritizes appearance over health and individuality.
PROPOSED ITEM
Beauty contests have long been a platform for celebrating physical appearance,
but they also contribute to shaping societal standards of beauty that are often
unattainable for most individuals. This item explores how beauty pageants can
perpetuate unrealistic expectations about physical appearance, self-worth, and
gender roles. It also looks at the broader impact these contests have on body
image, mental health, and social pressures, particularly among young people.
1. Unrealistic Standards of Beauty:
• Beauty contests typically highlight a narrow and often unrealistic
standard of beauty, which often emphasizes features like a specific
body shape, clear skin, a particular height, and youthful appearance.
Contestants are judged primarily on these physical traits, reinforcing
the idea that beauty is the most important measure of worth and
success.
2. Perpetuating Harmful Stereotypes:
• The contestants in most beauty contests often fit a very homogenous
profile: tall, slim, light-skinned, and conventionally attractive. This
excludes a large portion of the population and reinforces narrow
ideals. People who do not meet these physical standards may feel
excluded or inferior, leading to issues like low self-esteem, anxiety,
or depression.
3. The Pressure on Contestants:
• Many beauty pageants require contestants to adhere to strict diets,
workout regimens, and grooming routines in preparation for the
competition. This can lead to unhealthy behaviours and unrealistic
expectations about physical perfection. The emphasis on appearance
over intellect, personality, and achievements can undermine
contestants' sense of identity and self-worth.
4. The Mental Health Implications:
• Studies have shown a correlation between exposure to media that
emphasizes beauty standards (like beauty contests) and negative
body image. This is particularly concerning for young audiences
who are still developing their self-concept. Mental health issues such
as eating disorders, body dysmorphia, and depression are often
linked to the unrealistic portrayal of beauty in the media, including
beauty pageants.
5. The Influence on Young Audiences:
• Beauty contests send a powerful message to children and
adolescents that physical appearance is the most important thing
about a person, overshadowing other qualities like intelligence,
kindness, creativity, and integrity. This can have lasting effects on
the way young people perceive themselves and others, leading to
unhealthy comparisons and a devaluation of diverse forms of beauty.
6. Shifting the Narrative:
• In recent years, there has been a growing movement toward body
positivity and inclusivity in the media. Some beauty pageants have
started to feature contestants with diverse body types, ethnic
backgrounds, and talents, attempting to broaden the definition of
beauty. However, even with these shifts, there are still deep-rooted
cultural expectations and market-driven pressures that keep the
focus primarily on physical appearance.
7. The Future of Beauty Contests:
• For beauty contests to evolve in a way that supports healthy self-
image, there must be a greater emphasis on celebrating individuality,
personality, accomplishments, and the diverse ways people express
beauty. Contestants could be encouraged to share their personal
stories, talents, and contributions to society, rather than just focusing
on external appearances.
FUTURE DEVELOPMENT
CONCLUSION
https://meteamedia.org/20179/opinions/the-beauty-standards-placed-on-women-
are-unrealistically-unachievable/
https://researchrepository.wvu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=4456&context=e
td
https://www.thehindu.com/life-and-style/meet-the-anti-influencers-embracing-
skin-and-body-positivity/article67010882.ece
https://www.cnn.com/2024/06/27/style/miss-ai-beauty-pageant-scli/index.html
https://scholars.unh.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1085&context=honors
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/330025189_International_beauty_pag
eants_and_the_construction_of_hegemonic_images_of_female_beauty
https://medium.com/change-becomes-you/in-an-already-sexist-world-do-we-
really-need-beauty-pageants-b25706a59f1d
https://edubirdie.com/examples/beauty-contest-setting-up-non-achievable-
beauty-standards-in-the-society/
https://e.vnexpress.net/news/perspectives/beauty-pageants-not-only-devalue-
women-but-also-distort-the-idea-of-beauty-4495840.html
SME SHEET
Signature: ( Photo)
CRITIQUE
The Compassion Fatigue and Burden Scale for Caregivers provides valuable
insight into the emotional and psychological strain that caregivers experience, but
it has several limitations. Its narrow focus on fatigue and burden overlooks other
important factors, such as financial strain, social isolation, and access to support
systems. The scale’s reliance on self-reporting can lead to biases, as caregivers
may underreport their distress due to guilt or societal expectations. Additionally,
the tool does not track caregiver experiences over time, missing the cumulative
effects of long-term caregiving. While useful, the scale would benefit from a more
holistic approach that includes coping strategies, cultural sensitivity, and
longitudinal tracking to better reflect the complexities of caregiving.
The Family Financial Stress and Student Academic Outcome Scale provides
a useful framework for assessing the impact of financial stress on students’
academic performance, but it has several limitations. First, the scale may
oversimplify the complex relationship between financial stress and academic
outcomes by focusing primarily on economic factors without considering other
variables such as mental health, social support, or individual resilience.
Additionally, it relies on self-reporting, which may introduce bias, as students
might not fully recognize or disclose the effects of financial stress on their
performance. The scale also doesn’t account for varying cultural or regional
contexts, which can influence how financial stress is experienced and its effect
on academic outcomes. A more comprehensive approach that includes multiple
stressors and longitudinal tracking would provide a clearer, more nuanced
understanding of how financial challenges affect students over time.
The Teenage Peer Pressure and Effect on Family Relations scale offers
valuable insights into how peer influence during adolescence can affect family
dynamics, but it has some notable limitations. The scale may oversimplify the
complex interactions between peer pressure and family relations, focusing mainly
on external behaviours without fully addressing underlying psychological or
emotional factors, such as self-identity or communication styles within the
family. Additionally, its reliance on self-reporting can lead to biases, as teenagers
may not always be fully aware of or willing to acknowledge the impact of peer
pressure on their relationships with family members. The scale also lacks
consideration of cultural or socio-economic factors that can shape how peer
pressure is experienced and how family relations are affected. A more holistic and
context-sensitive approach could provide a deeper understanding of these
dynamics.
GROUP SCALE
INTRODUCTION
The attitude of the older generation towards mental health treatment for the
younger generation is a critical area of focus, especially as societal perceptions
of mental health continue to evolve. Historically, mental health issues have often
been stigmatized, misunderstood, or minimized, particularly by older generations
who grew up in times when mental health was rarely discussed openly. For many
in older age groups, mental health struggles may have been seen as personal
failings or weaknesses, rather than complex medical conditions that require
treatment and support. These views were shaped by cultural norms that prioritized
stoicism, self-reliance, and a reluctance to engage in conversations about
emotional vulnerability. As a result, mental health treatment, such as therapy or
psychiatric intervention, was often viewed with skepticism or even outright
resistance. However, the younger generation, in contrast, has grown up in an era
where mental health awareness has significantly increased, largely due to greater
media representation, advocacy movements, and the growing body of research
supporting the importance of mental well-being. Young people today are more
likely to recognize the value of seeking professional help for mental health
concerns and are increasingly open about discussing their emotional and
psychological needs. Social media, celebrity endorsements, and mental health
campaigns have played a significant role in destigmatizing mental illness, leading
to a more supportive and open attitude towards mental health care in younger
generations. This generational divide can create tension and misunderstanding
between the two groups. Older individuals may perceive younger people's
willingness to discuss or seek treatment for mental health issues as a sign of
weakness or as a reflection of modern cultural trends that they find difficult to
relate to. On the other hand, younger individuals might feel frustrated or
invalidated by the older generation's reluctance to embrace therapy or counseling,
particularly when mental health is seen as something that should be "toughed out"
rather than treated. This cultural clash highlights the need for open dialogue
between generations, in which the older generation's concerns are acknowledged
while also fostering a greater understanding of the younger generation's
perspective on mental health care. Bridging this gap is crucial not only for
improving intergenerational relationships but also for creating a more
compassionate and supportive society where mental health is treated with the
importance and care it deserves, regardless of age.
LITERATURE REVIEW
AIM- Attitudes toward mental health treatment in African American men has
viewed
PARTICIPANTS- The sample for this study included individuals from the baby
boomers era born between 1943 and 1960, generation X born between 1961 and
1981, and millennial generation born between 1982 and 2000.
SCALES- Scale (ATSPPHS), a 29-item questionnaire. Responses were
computed using the Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) to determine the frequency
of a response in each category on the questionnaire among the generational
cohorts.
A Multivariate Analysis of Variance (MANOVA) was used to determine if there
was a difference in attitudes toward seeking mental health treatment and
generational cohort in African American males as measured by the ATSPPHS
four factor subscales.
FINDINGS- Findings from this research determined the differences in the
attitudes toward seeking mental health treatment among African American men
in the baby boomers era, generation X, and the millennial generations were not
present. Although PREVIEW significant findings were found in this current
study, continued research is important to improve mental health services for
African American male
Attitudes to Ageing : a systematic review of attitudes to ageing and mental health,
and a cross-sectional analysis of attitudes to ageing and quality of life in older
adults by Long, Sarah Charlotte May
AIMS- s attitudes to ageing in older adults, and explores the impact that attitudes
to ageing have on mental health status and quality of life.
PARTICIPANTS- Firstly a systematic search of studies exploring the
relationship between attitudes to ageing and mental health in older adults (>55
years)
Analysis of attitudes to ageing and quality of life in older adults (>57 years)
The sample was then divided into two age groups (57-79 years and 80+ years)
and attitudes to ageing and quality of life ratings were compared. Results revealed
more negative ratings in attitudes to ageing and quality of life in the over 80 year
old age group.
SCALES- A 5-item subscale on ‘attitudes towards own aging’ within the
Philadelphia Geriatric Center Morale Scale (PGCMS) (Lawton, 1975)
Laidlaw et al (2007) developed an ‘Attitudes to Ageing’ questionnaire (AAQ)
FINDINGS- The discovery that attitudes to ageing in older adults are associated
with mental health status suggests that these attitudes are mood-state dependent
(Chachamovich et al, 2008). Thus, the onset of depression in late life may trigger
the development of negative attitudes to ageing or vice versa, demonstrating that
attitudes are not global or rigid but can be manipulated (Shenkin et al, 2012).
Targeting ageing attitudes of individuals who access mental health services, in a
therapeutic context, could be a means to improving and treating mental health
difficulties.
CONCEPTUALISATION
1.Generation Gap:
Definition: The generation gap is defined as differences in values and beliefs,
besides different life experiences among the generations that affect how they view
mental health issues. Older people may have grown up in times when mental
health was not openly discussed or explained and could not, therefore, possibly
empathize or care much about the exclusive mental health issues the younger
generation is facing. This difference may often translate into misunderstandings
and lowered support for mental health care.
Example: Older adults may believe that younger people's use of therapy or
medication is unnecessary or a weakness, while the younger people may view
mental health support as necessary.
2. Shame and Stigma:
Conceptualization: Stigma refers to the negative social labelling and attitude that
is associated with mental health disorders. Older generations may hold
stigmatized views toward mental health, perceiving it as a personal failing or
weakness, which makes them harbour shame about mental health disorders in the
family. This would discourage younger generations and lead to silence over
mental health disorders.
Example: The older generation may have nothing to do with mental health issues
being opened up because they argue that the family gets a little kind of shame and
judgment just by talking about it.
3. Privacy and Hushing Matters Within the Family:
Conceptualization: Many elder generations may feel that personal and family
issues are considered private, and that mental health issues should be handled
through the family itself and not by intervention from external parties. This
cultural impact puts pressure on the younger generation to, therefore, not seek
help professionally but rather keep it within themselves because of the stigma
surrounding such issues.
Example: An older parent may discourage a younger family member from
consulting for therapy, thinking that family members should fight out the mental
problems internally.
4. Resilience
Conceptualization: Resilience refers to the ability to withstand and spring back
from adversity. As individuals belonging to the older generation would have lived
through possibly significant challenges, the reliance on individual resilience with
individualistic separateness becomes strong. They may think that younger
generations just need to toughen up or work through their mental health issues
without having to find external support. This can lead to developing the notion
that the young age group has less resilience at least in the terms set forth by the
older generation because they seek help from mental health professionals or a
support system.
Example: An older adult might tell a younger person that they just have to "tough
out" their anxiety or depression and see no reason to go to a therapist.
5. Awareness and Accessibility:
Definition: Awareness refers to the knowledge already available or existing about
mental health disorders, while accessibility refers to how easily mental health
services can be accessed. The aged may not be well aware of the nature of mental
health problems or with some of the present treatment modalities such as
counselling and psychiatric medication. Additionally, they may have had less
access to mental health resources at the formative years of their lives, influencing
their attitude toward seeking help. They either do not know how mental health
services work or tend to assume that such services may not be needed.
ITEM WRITING
RESPONSE FORMAT
For each statement, respondents are asked to express their level of agreement or
disagreement using a 5-point Likert scale:
1. Strongly Disagree
2. Disagree
3. Neutral
4. Agree
5. Strongly Agree
Participants can express how strongly they feel about each item using this
response format, which helps to provide a more detailed picture of their attitude
regarding mental health treatment . We have carried out a pilot study to confirm
the scale's efficacy beyond this point.
Following are the Instructions given to the Participants:
Participants are encouraged to reflect on their personal experiences related to the
Attitude of older generations towards the mental health treatment of the younger
generation . Each statement should be answered honestly based on their own
feelings and thoughts.
1. Keeping mental health issues within the family helps maintain family
honor.
2. People with mental health problems should feel ashamed.
3. I know that I can discuss my mental health concerns privately with a mental
health professional.
4. It is important for younger people to address their mental health issues with
professional help.
5. Younger generations should have access to mental health resources.
6. I believe that society judges families that acknowledge mental health
struggles publicly.
7. I feel that mental health services are readily available to me and others in
my family.
8. Young people should feel comfortable seeking mental health support.
9. I feel confident in the ability of younger individuals to adapt and recover
from mental health issues.
10. Mental health services are affordable for the younger generation.
11. I prefer to not disclose any emotional outbursts in my family to others.
12. I openly share physical ailments but not mental health ailments of my
family members to outsiders.
13. The younger generation overreacts to normal life stressors.
14. The younger generation is too quick to seek professional help for mental
health issues.
15. It is easy for me to find information about available mental health services.
16. Mental health professionals are available at times that are convenient for
young people.
17. Young people can easily arrange transportation to reach mental health
treatment.
18. I have enough information about how young people can access mental
health services
19. I feel that mental health professionals are respectful and understanding
towards older adults and young people.
20. Mental health treatment services are designed to address the specific needs
of individuals.
21.I feel that mental health professionals are accessible to my family when we
need them.
22.There is a stigma associated with seeking mental health treatment in my
community.
23.I feel that today’s youth may not benefit from mental health treatment so they
should seek guidance from elders instead of going to a mental health professional.
24.Affordable mental health services are not easily accessible in my area.
25. I think that mental health treatment is often difficult to access due to long wait
times.
26. I know that mental health treatment can include both therapy and medication.
27. Older generations may view mental health issues as a personal matter rather
than a societal concern.
28. Older generations are gradually accepting the importance of mental health
care.
29. There’s a notable generational shift towards prioritizing mental health as a
part of overall well being.
30. Younger people talk more openly about mental health than older people.
31. I am aware of the potential benefits of mental health treatment.
32. I am aware of the different professionals who provide mental health care.
33. I am aware of common mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.
34. I have read or heard information about mental health treatment in the past
year.
35. I believe that seeking mental health treatment can improve one’s quality of
life.
36. Online mental health resources are helpful for young people seeking
treatment.
37. I have faith in the younger generation’s capacity to handle mental health
struggles effectively.
38. I believe that younger people can learn and grow from their mental health
experiences.
39. I feel that mental health education in schools helps young people cope better
with their issues.
40. Younger people can gain valuable insights from mental health counselling.
41. Seeking mental health treatment outside the family betrays trust.
42. Mental health treatment is a positive step for younger generations.
43. Supporting young people in seeking mental health treatment is important.
44. Family matters should be resolved within the family, not with outsiders.
45. It is acceptable to discuss my family’s difficulties with others.
46. It is imperative that everyone knows everything about each other in a family.
47. I feel comfortable discussing my family’s problems with outsiders.
48. I would rather prefer to keep a secretive life than a social one.
49. I feel our family openly discusses any emotional difficulty.
50. I feel the way mental health is viewed has changed too much over time.
51. I believe mental health information is not readily available to older
generations.
52. I often find it hard to understand what mental health professionals do.
53. I have seen advertisements for mental health services in my area.
54. There are too few mental health resources for the needs of young people.
55. It is difficult to find culturally relevant mental health services for young
people.
56. I believe that mental health problems in the younger generation are
underdiagnosed.
57. Young people should be taught resilience-building techniques early in life.
58. I worry that others will judge my family if they know a member is receiving
mental health treatment.
59. I feel embarrassed when someone in my family talks about their mental health
struggles.
60. Seeking help for mental health issues can negatively affect a family’s
reputation.
61. I have been hesitant to support my child’s mental health treatment due to fear
of judgment.
62. I believe that mental health issues are often exaggerated.
63. Discussing mental health concerns with a therapist feels like exposing family
secrets.
64. It’s unnecessary to involve a professional when we can handle mental health
issues ourselves.
65. Younger generations are more open to talking about mental health than older
generations.
66. Older generations did not need mental health treatment as much as today’s
youth.
67. The younger generation is more dependent on therapy compared to older
adults.
68. Older adults tend to think mental health issues are less serious than the
younger generation believes.
69. Young people are too focused on their mental health compared to previous
generations.
70. Mental health problems were often overlooked by older generations.
71. Older generations view therapy as unnecessary, while young people see it as
essential.
72. I feel that mental health services should be free for the younger generation.
73. It is important to resolve family mental health problems without outside help.
74. The younger generation has a stronger sense of emotional well-being with
access to mental health care.
75. I have noticed that young people can recover quickly from setbacks if they
have the right support.
76. I believe society judges families that openly discuss mental health issues.
77. I often hear discussions about mental health services in the media.
78.I believe young people need to experience challenges to build their resilience.
79. I would be concerned about what neighbors think if someone in my family
sought mental health treatment.
80. Handling mental health issues within the family allows us to maintain a sense
of control.
PILOT STUDY
The pilot study aimed to evaluate the initial version of the scale developed to
measure the attitudes of the older generation towards mental health treatment for
the younger generation. The objectives included assessing item clarity, measuring
internal consistency, and making revisions based on participant feedback and
statistical analysis. The study involved 30 participants aged 50 and above from
diverse backgrounds, chosen to ensure that the scale accurately reflected the
perspectives of this demographic, with varying familiarity with mental health
issues.
The scales used in the study were the newly developed “Attitude of Older
Generation Towards Mental Health Treatment for Younger Generation” and the
established “Attitudes Toward Seeking Professional Psychological Help Scale.”
Together, these scales comprised 50 items. Responses were collected through an
online survey, structured into two sections. In the first section, participants
responded to items on a Likert scale ranging from "Disagree" to "Agree," while
the second section used a Likert scale from "Strongly disagree" to "Strongly
agree." Instructions were provided to ensure participants understood the process,
focusing on evaluating the scale's ability to capture relevant attitudes and
identifying items that might be unclear or ambiguous.
Data analysis involved reviewing each item for clarity and relevance based on
participant responses, considering factors like response variability and
correlations with the overall scale score. The internal consistency of the scale was
measured using Cronbach's alpha, with a value above 0.70 deemed acceptable.
The initial scale demonstrated a high internal consistency, achieving a Cronbach's
alpha of 0.909. Four poorly performing items were identified based on item-total
correlation analysis and subsequently removed, resulting in a revised scale of 46
items with a Cronbach's alpha of 0.907, maintaining strong reliability. To assess
validity, scores from the new scale were compared with those from the "Attitudes
Toward Seeking Professional Psychological Help Scale." The correlation
coefficient of 0.4488 indicated a moderate level of convergent validity,
suggesting the new scale generally aligned with established measures while still
needing further refinement for improved accuracy.
An exploratory factor analysis was conducted to identify underlying dimensions
within the scale, revealing groupings of items that corresponded to factors such
as perceived stigma, openness to treatment, and beliefs about mental health.
Poorly performing items that did not clearly load onto any factor were removed
during item reduction, leading to a refined scale that better captured essential
components of attitudes toward mental health treatment.
The results from the initial scale demonstrated high internal consistency, with a
reliability coefficient of 0.909 for 50 items. The removal of four poorly
performing items slightly reduced the reliability to 0.907, which is still considered
strong. The moderate validity correlation (0.4488) suggests that the scale captures
relevant attitudes towards mental health treatment but may need additional
refinement to achieve higher alignment with established measures. Feedback
from participants indicated some items were less clear, leading to further
revisions for improved clarity.
The pilot study demonstrated that the scale is a reliable tool for capturing the
attitudes of the older generation towards mental health treatment, with strong
internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha 0.907 for 46 items). The moderate validity
correlation (0.4488) suggested that the scale generally aligns with established
measures, but there’s still room for improvement to make it even more accurate.
Participants' feedback was valuable in highlighting items that were confusing or
unclear, leading to thoughtful revisions that made the scale clearer and more
relevant. These changes have helped create a tool that better reflects the
perspectives and attitudes of the older generation. While the refined 46-item scale
is promising, further testing with larger, more diverse groups is recommended to
ensure it truly resonates with a broader audience and captures the nuances of their
views.
Scale: All Variables
Case processing summary
N %
Excluded 2 6.3
Total 32 100.0
.909 .923 50
Reliability
Scale: All Variables
Case processing summary
N %
Excluded 5 14.3
Total 35 100.0
.907 .921 46
ADMINISTRATION
The administration of a scale "Attitude of Older Generation Towards Mental
Health Treatment for Younger Generation" involves several steps to ensure that
data is collected effectively, analyzed properly, and that participants’ responses
are meaningful. Below is an outline that provides guidance for administering the
scale:
1. Preparation of the Scale
• Reliability and Validity: If you’re using a pre-existing scale, confirm that
it has been tested for reliability and validity (measuring what it’s intended
to measure). If it’s an original scale, it’s important to pilot test it first on a
small sample to ensure that it is clear, relevant, and reliable.
• Demographic Information: Collect relevant demographic data such as
age, gender, education level, and geographical location to help in data
analysis and identifying patterns or trends.
• Consent Process: Ensure that participants understand the purpose of the
study, their rights, and how their data will be used. Obtain informed consent
before they participate.
2. Defining the Target Population
The scale is intended for the older generation (typically, individuals aged 50+).
Therefore, target sample specifically meet this age criterion.
Eligibility Check:
• Age 50 or older
• Optional: Participants could be asked about their prior exposure to mental
health issues or treatment, but it’s not necessary to restrict them based on
this criterion unless it's relevant to the study.
3. Setting Up the Survey
• Design the Form: Include clear instructions, demographic questions, and
the attitude scale items. Structure it logically (e.g., intro, demographics,
attitude scale, concluding remarks).
• Randomization (optional): If there are multiple versions of the scale,
consider randomizing the order of questions or responses to reduce bias.
• Response Options: Ensure that response options are clear and consistent.
For example, use Likert scales with clear labels (e.g., 1 = Strongly Disagree
to 5 = Strongly Agree).
• Pilot Testing: Before sharing the form widely, conduct a pilot test with a
small number of participants to make sure there are no technical issues and
that the questions are clear.
4. Administration of the Scale
Share the form with your participants via email, social media, or any
platform that you think will reach individuals over 50. If you're collecting
responses through other means (like in-person or via phone), ensure you
have the appropriate tools to input responses.
Set a clear timeframe for when the survey will be open. Encourage
participants to complete the survey within that time frame to ensure a good
response rate.
5. Monitoring and Follow-up
If the survey is online, send out a polite reminder halfway through the data
collection period (e.g., a week after the initial invitation) to encourage
responses. Provide participants with a way to contact you if they
experience any issues completing the form.
6. Closing the Survey
• Once you’ve reached your desired sample size, close the survey (or stop
accepting responses).
Reversed items - 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 23, 30, 31, 32, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44,
46.
5-point Likert Scale
Normal Scoring:
1 = Strongly Disagree
2 = Disagree
3 = Neutral
4 = Agree
5 = Strongly Agree
Reverse Scoring:
1 = Strongly Agree
2 = Agree
3 = Neutral
4 = Disagree
5 = Strongly Disagree
Interpretation:
The attitude of the older generation towards mental health treatment for younger
generations can be interpreted as follows:
• Low Attitude (46 -107): Older individuals with scores in this range generally
hold negative or unfavourable views about mental health treatment for younger
people. This could reflect skepticism, misunderstandings, or reluctance to support
mental health interventions for the youth.
• Moderate Attitude (108 -169): This score reflects ambivalence or mixed
feelings. While there is some degree of openness to mental health treatment, the
older generation may still experience doubts or uncertainties about its
effectiveness or necessity for younger individuals.
• High Attitude (170 -230): Older individuals with scores in this range are highly
supportive of mental health treatment for younger generations. They recognize
its importance and are likely to advocate for or promote mental health services
for the youth.
PSYCHOMETRIC PROPERTIES
Reliability
Reliability refers to the consistency of the measurement and indicates the extent
to which the scale produces stable and consistent results. There are several types
of reliability that can be assessed.
Internal Consistency (Cronbach’s Alpha)-Internal consistency assesses how
well the items on the scale measure the same underlying construct (i.e., attitudes
towards mental health treatment for younger generations).
Calculate Cronbach’s alpha for the scale. Higher values of Cronbach’s alpha
indicate better internal consistency. A value of 0.7 or above is considered
acceptable in most social science research.
Example:
o Cronbach’s Alpha = 0.85: This would indicate good internal
consistency and suggest that the items on the scale (e.g., "Mental
health treatment is important for younger people," "Younger
generations are more open to mental health treatment") are
measuring the same construct.
Tests of Normality
Kolmogorov-Smirnova Shapiro-Wilk
Statistic df Sig. Statistic df Sig.
VAR0000 .104 98 .011 .954 98 .002
1
VAR0000 .105 98 .010 .953 98 .001
2
VAR0000 .179 98 <.001 .909 98 <.001
3
VAR0000 .119 98 .002 .973 98 .038
4
VAR0000 .149 98 <.001 .957 98 .003
5
VAR0000 .174 98 <.001 .960 98 .004
6
a. Lilliefors Significance Correction
APPLICATIONS
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3822658/#:~:text=The%20negative%
20stereotypes%20and%20attitudes,older%20women%20must%20be%20strengt
hened.&text=In%20conclusion%2C%20the%20promotion%20of,mental%20he
alth%20in%20old%20age.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19170041/#:~:text=A%20greater%20awarenes
s%20of%20factors,face%20of%20age%2Dassociated%20adversity.
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/24291-diagnostic-and-statistical-
manual-dsm-
5#:~:text=The%20Diagnostic%20and%20Statistical%20Manual%20of%20Men
tal%20Disorders%2C%20often%20known,and%20publishing%20of%20this%2
0book.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8938292/#:~:text=barriers%20to%20
care-
,OBJECTIVES:,engaging%20in%20mental%20health%20treatment.&text=Agi
ng%20is%20associated%20with%20unique,younger%20and%20middle%20ag
ed%20adults.&text=In%20addition%20to%20having%20lower,life%20satisfact
ion%20than%20younger%20cohorts.&text=However%2C%20the%20COVID
%2D19%20pandemic,%2C%20anxiety%2C%20and%20insomnia%20reported.
&text=We%20sought%20to%20evaluate%20how,in%20a%20nationally%20rep
resentative%20sample.
APPENDIX A
FINAL SCALE ITEMS
1. I know where to seek professional help for most of the mental health problems.
2. Mental health treatment should be kept private and not discussed with friends
or colleagues.
3. Young people today are good at bouncing back from difficult situations most
of the time.
4. Concealing family mental health issues from society will help us to cope
better/heal faster.
5. There is a lack of understanding about mental health problems in older
generations.
6. I selectively share behavioral and emotional issues about my family with
others.
7. I trust that younger generations can build resilience through proper mental
health support.
8. Mental health services are easily accessible in my community.
9. Many older adults recognize the importance of mental health and are
supportive of younger generations seeking professional help.
10. Discussing mental health issues with a therapist is an invasion of family
privacy.
11. Professional help is essential for young people dealing with mental health
issues.
12. I trust that mental health professionals have the expertise to help my
children/grandchildren with their mental health concerns.
13. Older generations had better coping mechanisms for stress.
14. Mental health issues are often exaggerated and not as serious as they are
made out to be.
15. I am willing to seek treatment for my family if they face any mental health
problems.
16. I know someone who has benefited from mental health treatment.
17. I would rather delay or deny professional mental health treatment for myself/a
family member when required.
18. Encouraging young people to seek mental health treatment is crucial.
19. I believe that today’s generation makes mental health unnecessarily
important.
20. Mental illness cannot be cured.
21. Mental health treatment helps young people become stronger.
22.I feel that seeking mental health treatment brings shame to the family.
23. The cost of mental health services is affordable for my family.
24. Therapy can provide young people with coping strategies for life challenges.
25. I believe that mental health treatments are not effective.
26. Therapy can help younger people manage their mental health effectively.
27. I tend to give more importance to my family’s physical health than their
mental health.
28. Addressing mental health issues early in life is beneficial for young people.
29. Mental health treatment is too expensive for me to afford.
30. I am willing to unconditionally accept my family’s issues/difficulties.
31. I feel it is okay for my child/grandchild to discuss their mental health
concerns with a professional.
32. Mental health problems should not be discussed outside the family.
33. I believe that coping mechanisms taught in therapy are useful for the younger
generation.
34. Mental health problems should be kept within the family.
35. My fixed income limits my ability to afford mental health treatment for my
children/grandchildren.
36. Mental health treatment makes young people more able to face future
challenges.
37. Young people have been able to access mental health services when they
needed them.
38. Mental health treatment can improve the quality of life for younger
generations.
39. I believe that mental health treatment is as important as physical health
treatment.
40. It’s better to handle mental health issues on our own rather than seeking
professional help.
41. I understand that mental health issues can affect anyone, regardless of age.
42. Younger generation easily gives up when faced with obstacles.
43. I am likely to seek help from my family/others in case of a mental health
crisis.
44. Mental health treatment is too expensive for me to afford.
45. Seeking mental health treatment is a sign of weakness.
46. I believe that there should be more mental health education and awareness
programs for younger generations.
Reversed items – 2, 4, 10, 13, 14, 17, 19, 20, 22, 25, 27, 29, 32, 34, 35, 40, 42,
44, 45.
APPENDIX B
Scoring Key for the attitude of older generation towards the mental health
treatment of younger generation.
Score Ranges Impact Description
Sign:
Sign:
Name: Tejal. S. Pillai
Qualification: Msc in Child Psychology
Workplace: Little Step Rehabilitation Centre
Contact Number: +919833111632
Email ID: Tejalpillai55@gmail.com
Signature:
Sign:
Name: Zainab Khan
Qualification: MA in clinical psychology
Workplace:J.J.hospital
Contact Number: +91 70398 96580
Email ID: zainabkhan7039896580@gmail.com
Sign:
Sign: