Description
- Abstract:
- Many people have an opinion regarding self-diagnosed mental health conditions, but few have an in-depth understanding of why individuals self-diagnose and what the process entails. The literature is mainly limited to the perspectives of practitioners, the supposed “experts” on psychiatric issues. Through a sociological lens of identity and community, this thesis examines the material realities of individuals who identify with self-diagnosis, drawing on the power of narrative to suggest broader implications for the mental health landscape. I conducted 26 interviews with five practitioners and 21 self-diagnosed individuals and found that motivations for self-diagnosis extend far beyond a desire for labels or a need to fit in. My findings suggest that the formal diagnostic process has numerous flaws, which are acknowledged by professionals but appear to be largely unchanged. Individuals who self-diagnose are driven in part by an aversion to psychiatry, but also by a craving for autonomy and authority, which is inextricably linked to their sense of kinship and identity. Ultimately, this research suggests that while an imperfect process, self-diagnosis fills in the gaps left by an inadequate healthcare system, and encourages individuals to assert authority over their mental health.
- Notes:
- Senior thesis (AB)--Brown University, 2025
- Concentration: Sociology
Access Conditions
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- In Copyright
- Restrictions on Use
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Citation
Cork, Lily J.,
"“Madness for Identity” or Overcoming Obstacles: A Qualitative Review of Self-Diagnosis among Gen-Z"
(2025).
Sociology Theses and Dissertations.
Brown Digital Repository. Brown University Library.
https://doi.org/10.26300/bzzc-f903
