Factors affecting intention to access psychological services amongst British Muslims of South Asian origin

The aim of this study was to examine factors that affect intention to access psychological services in a sample of British Muslims of South Asian origin. It was hypothesised that the level of shame/izzat associated with mental health would predict intention to access services when controlling for other, more established, predictors. Ninety-four participants were recruited from community UK centres and online sources. Results indicated that shame/izzat and biological beliefs predicted lesser intent to access psychological services, whereas higher levels of acculturation and education predicted greater intention. Further analyses suggested differences between people that had migrated to Britain and those born in the United Kingdom. Higher education levels predicted greater intention for all participants. However, shame/izzat and duration of habitation in Britain were significant predictors for migrant participants, whereas acculturation predicted intent for those that were born in the country. Clinical impl...