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Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Mental Health
Published in: Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Mental Health 1/2012

Open Access 01-12-2012 | Review

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

Authors: Jennifer J Muehlenkamp, Laurence Claes, Lindsey Havertape, Paul L Plener

Published in: Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Mental Health | Issue 1/2012

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Abstract

Background

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.

Methods

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.

Results

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.

Conclusion

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.
Appendix
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Metadata
Title
International prevalence of adolescent non-suicidal self-injury and deliberate self-harm
Authors
Jennifer J Muehlenkamp
Laurence Claes
Lindsey Havertape
Paul L Plener
Publication date
01-12-2012
Publisher
BioMed Central
Published in
Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Mental Health / Issue 1/2012
Electronic ISSN: 1753-2000
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/1753-2000-6-10

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