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. 2023 Dec 1;152(6):e2023063918.
doi: 10.1542/peds.2023-063918.

Nonsuicidal Self-Injury in Preadolescents

Taylor A Burke  1   2 , Alexandra H Bettis  3 , Rachel F L Walsh  4 , Rachel Y Levin  1   2 , Hannah R Lawrence  5 , Ana E Sheehan  6 , Margarid R Turnamian  1 , Richard T Liu  1   2
Affiliations

Nonsuicidal Self-Injury in Preadolescents

Taylor A Burke et al. Pediatrics. .

Abstract

Objectives: There is a dearth of literature on the prevalence and predictors of nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) history and onset among preadolescent youth. This gap in the literature is significant given evidence suggesting that NSSI is a robust predictor of negative mental health outcomes, and that early onset NSSI may be associated with a more severe course of self-injurious thoughts and behaviors. This study aimed to evaluate sociodemographic characteristics, psychiatric disorders, and suicidal ideation (SI) in relation to NSSI onset and history in preadolescents.

Methods: Data were drawn from the Adolescent Brain and Cognitive Development (ABCD) study, which recruited a diverse sample of 11 875 youth aged 9 to 10 years. The primary outcome measures were lifetime history and recent onset of NSSI. Measures included sociodemographics and the K-SADS diagnostic interview assessing psychopathology and SI.

Results: Female sex and identifying as Black were associated with lower odds of lifetime NSSI. Identifying as a sexual minority, having unmarried parents, and a low family income were associated with higher odds of lifetime NSSI. Although depression was most predictive of NSSI history and onset, a range of internalizing and externalizing disorders, greater comorbidity, and SI also were predictive.

Conclusions: Given that NSSI was associated with a range of mental health disorders and comorbidity, it may be best conceptualized as a transdiagnostic phenomenon. Findings highlight key sociodemographic and diagnostic factors that may help to direct screening efforts in preadolescents, particularly sexual minority status and depression.

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Conflict of interest statement

CONFLICT OF INTEREST DISCLOSURES: The authors have indicated they have no conflicts of interest relevant to this article to disclose.

References

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