Perceived Changes in Attitudes and Behavioral Intentions Among Postsecondary Students Following Instructors’ Disclosures of Mental Illness and/or Neurodiversity

Little is known about how postsecondary students experience instructors’ disclosures of mental illness and/or neurodiversity in the classroom. This exploratory study queried students’ ( n = 330) understandings of how these revelations shaped their perceptions of disclosing instructors, behavioral intentions, and attitudes toward mental illness. Most students reported that instructors’ disclosures had positively influenced their perceptions of these educators and their attitudes toward mental illness. In addition, lower mental health stigma predicted more positive perceptions of, and behavioral intentions toward, these instructors. Implications for instructors, students, and postsecondary institutions are discussed. Study limitations and suggestions for further research are also delineated.