Abstract
Using in depth interviews and oral surveys with a total of 92 participants, this study examines the perceptions of mental illness as well as how they can be affected by public education and open discussion in Ghanaian metropolitan areas. The study proposes that there are negative perceptions surrounding mental illness and that public education and open discussion can aid in changing the status quo. The study uses symbolic interactionism as well as stigma and labelling theories to analyze the roles that Ghanaians play in influencing stigma and labels through and from social interactions. The results of the study support the hypothesis and indicates how mental illness is defined, viewed, stigmatized and labelled, and how it affects treatment-seeking behavior. Recommendations for future researchers and the Ghanaian society are discussed in the concluding chapter.
Advisor
Seiko, Matsuzawa
Department
Sociology and Anthropology
Recommended Citation
Thompson, Akosua, "Perceptions of Mental Illness in Ghanaian Metropolitan Areas and the Effect of Public Education and Open Discussion." (2017). Senior Independent Study Theses. Paper 7700.
https://openworks.wooster.edu/independentstudy/7700
Disciplines
Medicine and Health Sciences | Social and Behavioral Sciences
Keywords
Mental illness, Perceptions
Publication Date
2017
Degree Granted
Bachelor of Arts
Document Type
Senior Independent Study Thesis
© Copyright 2017 Akosua Thompson