Predictors of structural stigma in state mental health legislation during the Trump administration

Abstract

ABSTRACT Mental healthcare interventions are effective, yet services and access remain limited, as most bills and appropriations fail. Forms of structural stigma exist in mental healthcare policymaking, but research is limited regarding factors affecting their presence. Thus, a content analysis was conducted on mental health-related legislation in order to identify forms of structural stigma as well as any legislative influences. Findings indicated that (1) legislator political party, chamber, and gender were all significantly associated with structural stigma, while (2) Republican party membership was a significant predictor. Mental health advocates may utilize these findings when targeting policymakers in their stigma reduction efforts.