Citation

Chung S, Lesorogol C. J. Ethn. Cult. Divers. Soc. Work 2019; 28(2): 191-210.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2019, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/15313204.2016.1241974

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This qualitative study examines the experience of Korean-American women who had suicidal thoughts and/or used nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) during adolescence. This study aims to understand the etiology, help-seeking behaviors, and recovery of these young women. Eleven Korean-American women (mean age 26.7) were recruited and interviewed using in-depth semi-structured interviews. Transcripts were coded using a grounded theoretical framework. Themes indicate that participants experienced poor relationships with a parent, an inability to process their difficulties, and academic success despite their behaviors. Participants also indicated feelings of perfectionism and did not seek help, resulting in a theme called the paradox of perfection.

Language: en

Keywords

Asian-American; immigrant children; Korean-American; NSSI; suicide