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Psychometric Properties of the Mental Health Help-Seeking Scale Among Nursing Students
Zainab S Almogheer1, Chizimuzo Okoli, Donna L Schuman
1About the Authors Zainab S. Almogheer, PhD, RN, is a professor, College of Nursing, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky. Chizimuzo Okoli, PhD, APRN, FAAN, is a professor, College of Nursing, University of Kentucky. Donna L. Schuman, PhD, MSW, Med, is an assistant professor, School of Social Work, The University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, Texas. Mary Kay Rayens, PhD, is a professor, College of Nursing, University of Kentucky. Debra Moser, PhD, RN, FAHA, FPCVNA, FAAN, is a professor, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Knoxville, Tennessee. During the preparation of this work, the authors used ChatGPT to improve the readability and language of the article. After using this tool/service, the authors reviewed and edited the content as needed and take full responsibility for the content. For more information, contact Dr. Almogheer at z.almogheer@uky.edu.
Aim:
This study evaluated the psychometric properties of the Mental Health Help-Seeking Scale (MHHSS) for measuring nursing students' intentions to seek mental health services.
Methods:
An online survey with 148 nursing students was conducted. Factor analysis via principal components analysis was used to examine the scale's factor structure. Convergent validity was assessed by comparing MHHSS scores with the Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and Kessler Psychological Distress scales. Internal consistency was measured with Cronbach's alpha.
Results:
Cronbach's alpha was .924. Factor analysis identified a four-factor structure accounting for 83.2 percent of item variance. Convergent validity analysis showed significant positive correlations between MHHSS total and subscales (attitudes, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, intentions) and both the ACEs and psychological distress scales.
Conclusion:
The MHHSS shows strong construct validity and reliability among nursing students; minor item refinement was recommended for improved attitude measurement.
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