Stages in the Help-Seeking Decision-Making Process and Factors Involved

Abstract

This paper describes a study designed to investigate stages in the help-seeking decision making process and factors involved. A multi-method design was adopted which involved 1,279 respondents. Results found that there was a hierarchical system in coping behavior. Respondents tried to face their problems on their own before seeking help. Internal resources and problem perceived, social impacts, and personal characteristics were involved in help-seeking decision process. Personal qualities of and familiarity with the potential helpers, perceived capacity to help, social role and the accessibility of the potential helpers, guarantee of confidentiality were considered in the selection of helpers