Citation

Young CC, Simonton AJ, Key S, Barczyk AN, Lawson KA. J. Pediatr. Health Care 2016; 31(3): 334-341.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2016, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/j.pedhc.2016.10.005

PMID

27816254

Abstract

Nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) in youth is a major public health concern. A retrospective chart review was conducted within a hospital system to examine (a) youth self-reports of reasons for engaging in NSSI and (b) additional contextual circumstances that may contribute to youth NSSI. Detailed history, physical examination, and treatment/discharge data were extracted by thoroughly reviewing all electronic documents in each medical record. The final sample (N = 135) were predominantly female (71.1%), and well over half (63.8%) reported Medicaid or uninsured status. Qualitative content analysis of youth self-reports and hospital progress notes showed that NSSI served as an emotional and functional coping mechanism. Five primary themes characterized the contextual influences on youth engaging in NSSI: (1) Personal Emotions, (2) Trauma, (3) Relationship Quality, (4) Sense of Loss, and (5) Risk Behaviors. Practical clinical practice suggestions for working with youth are discussed using these themes as a template for assessing risk and protective factors.

Copyright © 2016 National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Language: en