Admissions and Assumptions: Experimental Evidence of Stigma Towards Undergraduate Applicants Who Disclose Psychological Disorders

Psychological disorders often function as concealable identities which, nevertheless, can yield adverse consequences once disclosed. In three studies ( N = 1,073), we explore bias towards individuals who disclose psychological disorders in a high-stakes moment that carries material consequences (college admissions), using an ecologically valid stimulus (a real essay prompt used by Common App, a US college admissions portal). In Study 1, college student participants rated psychological health the least appropriate college essay topic compared to physical health and other identities (e.g., race, religion). In Studies 2-3 (S2-3), adult participants evaluated a college applicant whose essay disclosed a psychological disorder (depression, S2-3, bipolar disorder, S2) as significantly more dangerous, blameworthy, and avoidable, and also as less warm, competent, resilient, and qualified for college, compared to an identical applicant who disclosed a physical health disorder (Crohn’s disease, S2-3). These results were consistent across Asian, Black, and White applicants (S3), providing robust evidence of mental health bias in undergraduate college admissions.