International prevalence of adolescent non-suicidal self-injury and deliberate self-harm

• Main Authors: Muehlenkamp Jennifer J (Author), Claes Laurence (Author), Havertape Lindsey (Author), Plener Paul L (Author)
• Format: Book
• Published: BMC, 2012-03-01T00:00:00Z.
• Subjects: article
• Online Access: Connect to this object online.
• Notes: 10.1186/1753-2000-6-10; 1753-2000
• Keywords: Non-suicidal self-injury; Deliberate self-harm; Adolescents; Prevalence; Pediatrics; RJ1-570; Psychiatry; RC435-571
• Source: Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Mental Health, Vol 6, Iss 1, p 10 (2012)

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Background</p> <p>The behaviours of non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) and deliberate self-harm (DSH) are prevalent among adolescents, and an increase of rates in recent years has been postulated. There is a lack of studies to support this postulation, and comparing prevalence across studies and nations is complicated due to substantial differences in the methodology and nomenclature of existing research.</p> <p>Methods</p> <p>We conducted a systematic review of current (2005 - 2011) empirical studies reporting on the prevalence of NSSI and DSH in adolescent samples across the globe.</p> <p>Results</p> <p>Fifty-two studies fulfilling the inclusion criteria were obtained for analysis. No statistically significant differences were found between NSSI (18.0% SD = 7.3) and DSH (16.1% SD = 11.6) studies. Assessment using single item questions led to lower prevalence rates than assessment with specific behaviour checklists. Mean prevalence rates have not increased in the past five years, suggesting stabilization.</p> <p>Conclusion</p> <p>NSSI and DSH have a comparable prevalence in studies with adolescents from different countries. The field would benefit from adopting a common approach to assessment to aide cross-cultural study and comparisons.</p>