People are hesitant to consult a doctor or psychologist in case of psychological distress because of the _________ attached to it.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 3
The correct answer is Option (3) → stigma
It is commonly believed that a psychological disorder is something to be ashamed of. The stigma attached to mental illness means that people are hesitant to consult a doctor or psychologist because they are ashamed of their problems. A psychological disorder, which shows a failure in adaptation, should be viewed as any other illness.
Option (1) fees — Incorrect. Cost can stop a person from seeking any kind of treatment; it is not something ‘attached’ to mental illness in particular.
Option (2) medicines — Incorrect. Medicines are part of the treatment, not a mark of shame that makes people hide their problem.
Option (4) pain — Incorrect. Pain belongs to the illness itself, and it would push a person towards a doctor rather than keep her or him away.
Note: A similar question was also asked in CUET (UG) 2023 on 31-05-2023 (Slot 3).
NCERT (2025-26): “Concepts of Abnormality and Psychological Disorders … If you talk to people around, you will see that they have vague ideas about psychological disorders that are characterised by superstition, ignorance and fear. Again it is commonly believed that psychological disorder is something to be ashamed of. The stigma attached to mental illness means that people are hesitant to consult a doctor or psychologist because they are ashamed of their problems. Actually, psychological disorder which indicates a failure in adaptation should be viewed as any other illness.…” |