Online counselling among Filipinos: do Internet-related variables matter?

Abstract

ABSTRACT Using the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology as a framework, this study aims to examine whether performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, and facilitating conditions related to Internet use are associated with attitudes towards online counselling and online counselling utilization even after controlling for counselling-related variables. Results indicate that self-stigma and social support was negatively associated with attitudes towards online counselling. In addition, participants who perceive that important people in their lives encourage Internet use (social influence) have more favourable attitudes towards online counselling. Our results also suggest that positive attitudes towards online counselling and higher tendencies to self-conceal were associated with higher intent to utilize online counselling.