The Role of Face and Stigma in the Mental Health of UK Chinese International Students

Stigma can devalue an individual's social identity, particularly when linked to mental health challenges (Goffman, 1963). In Chinese culture, mental health is often framed as an interpersonal conflict, with the concept of ‘face’ (Hu, 1944)—the desire to maintain a positive social image—playing a significant role in social interactions. Research suggests that Chinese international students may experience heightened stigma due to these cultural pressures. Interpersonal conflicts are not the only challenges that Chinese international students encounter in the host country; they are also expected to resolve these issues with their families back home. Furthermore, societal and parental expectations for outstanding academic performance can lead to elevated levels of mental health distress. Despite facing mental health difficulties, studies show that these students are often reluctant to seek professional support. However, little research has examined how stigma and ‘face’ interact among UK Chinese international students. This paper draws on a study which aims to explore how concerns about ‘face’ contribute to mental health challenges for UK Chinese international students, considering the dual impact of stigma and cultural expectations.

The study uses interviews to gain in-depth insights into the intersection of face and stigma in shaping mental health experiences. Thematic analysis identifies recurring patterns in these interactions, informed by Link and Phelan’s (2001) modified labeling theory. This paper reports initial findings from this ongoing project.