Shifting Stigma Around Mental Health Services: Student Perceptions of an In-School Hip-Hop Studio

• In Event: 25.043 - "We Gon' Be Alright": Hip-Hop-Based Education, Knowledge, and Freedom

Abstract

In this paper we describe the benefits of using hip hop and spoken word therapy (HHSWT) within public schools as a counseling framework to address stigma around counseling services. This stigma is rooted in the mental health disparities which plague urban communities. These disparities include lack of access to care, lack of cultural sensitivity of care, and male gender norms inhibit emotional expression. Together these issues create said stigma, leading youth to believe receiving services is a sign of weakness or that services are ineffective. In this study we examined an urban counseling program which used a hip-hop rooted approach to counseling. Analysis of student interviews rendered evidence to support the use of HHSWT with urban youth to counter stigma.

Authors

• Ian Levy, Manhattan College

• Edmund S Adjapong, Seton Hall University

• Christopher Emdin, Teachers College, Columbia University