Citation

Tsai MH, Chen YH, Chen CD, Hsiao CY, Chien CH. Acta Paediatr. 2011; 100(11): e223-6.

Affiliation

Department of Family Medicine, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, Panchiao, Taipei, Taiwan Department of Public Health, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2011, John Wiley and Sons)

DOI

10.1111/j.1651-2227.2011.02357.x

PMID

21575057

Abstract

Background:  Prevalence rates for deliberate self harm (DSH) are unusually high among Taiwanese high school students. Several models have been advanced to explain the occurrence of deliberate self harm (DSH). One, the Experience Avoidance Model, suggests that self-mutilation helps the individual escape from unwanted emotional experiences. The purpose of this study was to examine the demographic, health and behavioral correlates of DSH in a population (Taiwanese adolescents) known to have a high rate of DSH. Method  A structured, self-administered questionnaire survey was completed by a sample of 742 vocational high school students in Taiwan. Results  Eighty-four students (11.3%) acknowledged DSH behavior. Results of multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that female students were 3.47 times as likely as male students to be in the DSH group. Avoidance behaviors of running away from school (odds ratio=3.45) and suicide attempt (odds ratio=13.05), a history of headache (odds ratio= 8.96), a history of sexual abuse (odds ratio=4.26), and drinking (odds ratio=4.12) were also significantly associated with DSH. Conclusions  Gender and a history of headaches, a history of sexual abuse, drinking, running away from school, or suicidal attempts were factors associated with DSH among Taiwanese adolescents. School personnel should be aware of these in order to formulate appropriate and timely interventions.

Language: en