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VOLUME 9 , ISSUE 1-4 ( January-December, 2023 ) > List of Articles

REVIEW ARTICLE

Deliberate Self-harm among Adolescents: Risk Factors, Diagnosis, and Preventive Measures

Audifax Kpeno, Pratap K Sahu, Surjeet Sahoo

Keywords : Preventive, Remedial solutions, Self-harm, Youth

DOI: 10.5005/jp-journals-10045-00232

License: CC BY-NC 4.0

Published Online: 23-09-2023

Copyright Statement:  Copyright © 2023; The Author(s).


Abstract

Introduction: Deliberate self-harm (DSH) is a problem that affects a lot of kids and teenagers, with various factors contributing to it. Aim: This review is aimed to determine the most effective preventive and remedial solutions for youth who engage in DSH and have diverse personality traits. Materials and methods: Literature was reviewed, identifying commonalities among articles and reporting on the most effective preventive measures, diagnoses, and risk factors for DSH. Findings: The review highlights the need for standardized definitions and assessment methods, research on the long-term outcomes of interventions, and information on the cost-effectiveness and scalability of solutions for self-harm among youth, particularly in resource-limited settings. The risk factors for adolescent DSH include substance use, peer/academic pressure, bullying, and exposure to violence. Signs of self-harm may include unexplained injuries, scars, and social isolation. Conclusion: The study recommends using various diagnostic tools and a multi-method approach to identify and assess self-harm behaviors among adolescents. The write-up emphasizes the need for preventive measures to address self-harm behaviors among youth, including implementing psychoeducational programs, addressing family conflicts, and educating young people about the harmful effects of stigmatization against mental health services. Encouraging positive parent–child relationships and implementing preventive measures, such as school-based programs and psychoeducation, can help prevent self-harming behaviors. Clinical significance: The findings of this review can help clinicians and researchers better understand the risk factors for adolescent self-harm and the need for effective preventive and remedial interventions.


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