Yaqoob, Ariffa (2025) "It’s better to be quiet than share”: Perspectives of secondary-aged students of British Pakistani background in seeking support for Social, Emotional & Mental Health. Professional Doctorate thesis, Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust / University of Essex. Full text available

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Abstract

This research explores the perspectives of British Pakistani adolescents on seeking support for Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) issues. The study aims to understand the cultural and gender-specific barriers and facilitators that influence help-seeking behaviours in this demographic. Utilising a qualitative methodology, data were collected through semi-structured interviews with adolescents aged 16-18 attending post-16 educational settings. The findings highlight significant cultural barriers, such as stigma, the importance of maintaining family honour, and gender-specific expectations, which inhibit open discussions about mental health and seeking professional support. Female participants reported a relatively higher inclination towards seeking help compared to their male counterparts, who often faced cultural pressures to conform to traditional masculine norms. The research underscores the need for culturally sensitive mental health interventions and greater mental health literacy within the British Pakistani community. It also suggests the importance of collaboration between educational institutions, mental health services, and community organisations to effectively address the mental health needs of British Pakistani adolescents.

Item Type:	Thesis (Professional Doctorate)
Additional Information:	Thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the Professional Doctorate in Child, Community and Educational Psychology awarded by the Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust in association with the University of Essex
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Professional Doctorate in Child, Community and Educational Psychology
Subjects:	Groups & Organisations > Racial/Cultural Groups Learning & Education > Educational Psychology Learning & Education > Special Needs Education Race and Culture > Race- Sociology
Department/People:	Children, Young Adult and Family Services Research
URI:	https://repository.tavistockandportman.ac.uk/id/eprint/2979

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