The Influences of Filipino Cultural Values on the Mental Health Experiences and Perceptions, Help-Seeking Attitudes and Coping Strategies of Filipinos in the Philippines and Aotearoa New Zealand

Abstract

Purpose: This study examined the influences of Filipino cultural values (Kapwa, Hiya, Utang na Loob, Pakikisama) on mental health perspectives and experiences among Filipinos in the Philippines and Aotearoa New Zealand, investigating how adherence to these values affects help-seeking attitudes and coping mechanisms. Methods: An anonymous cross-sectional design utilized adapted scales including the Adherence to Filipino Values Scale (AFVS), Filipino Coping Strategies Scale (FCSS), Attitudes Toward Seeking Professional Psychological Help Scale-Short Form (ATSPPHS-SF), and Individualism-Collectivism Scale (ICS). The Pinoy Ako Scale (PINAS) measured acculturation levels among New Zealand participants. A total of n=332 participants were retained (Philippines: n=218; New Zealand: n=114; n=107 completed PINAS). Results: Both groups demonstrated strong adherence to Filipino cultural values (Philippines: M=3.97, SD=0.45; New Zealand: M=3.98, SD=0.46). PINAS results revealed successful bicultural adaptation (M=4.80, SD=0.60) with 71% prioritising Filipino cultural transmission while viewing New Zealand as an "opportunity haven." Regression analyses showed different predictors across contexts: collectivism significantly predicted help-seeking attitudes in New Zealand (β=.289, p=.021), while adherence to Filipino values (β=.214, p=.003) and coping strategies (β=.243, p=.001) were significant predictors in the Philippines. The bicultural competence demonstrated through PINAS validated why collectivism, rather than traditional Filipino values, emerged as the key help-seeking predictor in diaspora contexts. Implications: Findings demonstrate that Filipino psychology in diaspora represents creative cultural adaptation requiring bicultural clinical competencies. The PINAS results validate the need for mental health approaches that honour both cultural frameworks rather than forcing binary choices between Filipino and Western psychological paradigms, supporting calls for decolonised, culturally adaptive research and clinical methodologies.