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Fear of being stigmatized is the most cited reason why individuals avoid psychotherapy. Conceptually, this fear should be strongest when individuals consider the reactions of those they interact with. Across 5 samples, the authors developed the Perceptions of Stigmatization by Others for Seeking Help (PSOSH) scale. In Sample 1 (N! 985), the 5 items of the PSOSH were selected ( !.91). In Sample 2 (N! 842), the unidimensional factor structure of the scale was examined across a diverse sample. In Sample 3 (N! 506), concurrent validity was supported through moderate associations with 3 different stigma measures (i.e., public stigma toward counseling, r!.31; public stigma toward mental illness, r!.20; and self-stigma, r!.37). In Sample 4 (N! 144), test–retest reliability across a 3-week period was calculated (.82). Finally, in Sample 5 (N! 130), reliability ( !.78) and validity were explored with a sample experiencing symptoms of psychological distress. Relationships between variables (i.e., public stigma toward counseling, r!.31, and self-stigma, r!.40) were similar to those in previous samples.
Vogel et al. (Thu,) studied this question.