Citation

Patchin JW, Hinduja S, Meldrum RC. Child Adolesc. Ment. Health 2022; ePub(ePub): ePub.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2022, John Wiley and Sons)

DOI

10.1111/camh.12574

PMID

35811440

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Research on digital self-harm - the anonymous online posting, sending, or otherwise sharing of hurtful content about oneself - is still in its infancy. Yet unexplored is whether digital self-harm is related to suicidal ideation or suicide attempts.

METHODS: In the current study, survey data were collected in 2019 from a national sample of 4972 American middle and high school students (M(age)  = 14.5; 50% female). Logistic regression analysis was used to assess whether lifetime engagement in two different indicators of digital self-harm was associated with suicidal thoughts and attempts within the past year.

RESULTS: Logistic regression analysis showed that engagement in digital self-harm was associated with a five- to sevenfold increase in the likelihood of reporting suicidal thoughts and a nine- to 15-fold increase in the likelihood of a suicide attempt.

CONCLUSIONS: Results suggest a connection between digital self-harm and suicidality. As such, health professionals must screen for digital self-harm to address underlying mental health problems among youth that may occur prior to or alongside suicidality, and parents/caregivers must convey to children that they are available to dialog, support, and assist with the root issues that may eventually manifest as digital self-harm.

Language: en

Keywords

Suicide; mental health; digital self-harm