This page provides answers to some of the frequently asked questions about the IBM-HS and help-seeking research in general. More answers will be added over time, so check back periodically. If you have a question not answered on this page, please consider reviewing the relevant sections of this website for potential answers before inquiring directly with Dr. Hammer.
Q: Do I need to measure help-seeking beliefs if I am going to use the IBM-HS?
A: No, you don’t have to. Help-seeking beliefs, which are typically measured by indirect belief measures, provide value to help-seeking investigations. However, because indirect measures are population-specific and therefore take time and resources to develop (for more information on developing indirect belief measures, see the mixed-method protocol page), it is not always feasible to assess help-seeking beliefs with indirect measures. And, for some help-seeking investigations, help-seeking beliefs are not relevant to the questions being investigated.
Q: If I am not using the IBM-HS as the guiding theory for my investigation, is it OK with use some IBM-HS measures?
A: Yes, use whatever will be helpful to you. It is common for help-seeking researchers to mix and match across different theories and measures. Just be sure to consider the principle of compatibility when using any measures of beliefs, mechanisms, or intention derived from the reasoned action tradition (which includes the IBM-HS).