Citation

Samsudin, Rahimah (2026) Integrating digital mental health model to prevent mental disorders among low-income groups in Malaysia. PhD thesis, Multimedia University.

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Abstract

This study investigates the factors influencing engagement with Digital Mental Health (DMH) services among low-income groups by integrating the Health Belief Model (HBM), Persuasive System Design (PSD), and Social Cognitive Theory (SCT). The research addresses persistent challenges faced by underserved populations, including financial limitations, cultural beliefs, digital barriers, and limited structural support, which collectively restrict access to DMH services. Using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM), the study evaluates how cognitive perceptions, persuasive supports, and behavioural engagement contribute to the prevention of mental disorders. The findings reveal that Perceived Benefit encompassing accessibility, affordability, and flexibility is the strongest determinant of engagement in DMH services. This highlights the importance of user-friendly, low-cost, and adaptable digital platforms in encouraging adoption among low-income communities. Perceived Belief, influenced by cultural norms and trust issues, also significantly predicts engagement, reinforcing the need for culturally sensitive and linguistically inclusive interventions. While Government Support does not directly influence engagement, Insurance Support demonstrates a significant effect, indicating that financial protection mechanisms are critical enablers of DMH utilisation. Most importantly, Engagement in DMH has a strong positive impact on the Prevention of Mental Disorders and mediates the relationship between cognitive perceptions, financial supports, and mental health outcomes. This confirms that meaningful engagement is the behavioural pathway through which digital interventions produce preventive benefits. Overall, this study advances theoretical understanding by demonstrating the combined explanatory power of HBM, PSD, and SCT in predicting DMH engagement. The findings offer practical guidance for developing equitable, accessible, and sustainable digital mental health strategies for low-income populations.

Item Type:	Thesis (PhD)
Additional Information:	Call No.: RA790.5 .R34 2026
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Mental health services
Subjects:	R Medicine > RA Public aspects of medicine > RA421-790.95 Public health. Hygiene. Preventive medicine
Divisions:	Faculty of Management (FOM)
Depositing User:	Ms Nurul Iqtiani Ahmad
Date Deposited:	15 Apr 2026 09:08
Last Modified:	15 Apr 2026 09:08
URII:	http://shdl.mmu.edu.my/id/eprint/15708

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