Graduation Term

2020

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

School of Communication

Committee Chair

John F. Hooker

Committee Member

Cheri J. Simonds

Abstract

This study uses the lens of Communication Privacy Management theory to analyze the impact an instructor’s depth of disclosure of their mental illness can have on mental illness stigmatization, classroom climate, as well as teacher credibility, homophily, and social attraction. Participants responded to a series of quantitative-based questions regarding a hypothetical syllabus with varied levels of a teacher disclosing their mental illness. Results indicated that none of the investigated dependent variables were negatively affected by the hypothetical instructor’s disclosure, and mental illness stigmatization was lessened. Implications, limitations, and areas for future research are discussed.

Access Type

Thesis-Open Access

DOI

https://doi.org/10.30707/ETD2020.1604319245281

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