Factors associated with self-harm in community-based young offenders: the importance of psychological variables

Abstract

Young offenders are known to be at high risk of self-harm, but the majority of research has examined incarcerated samples and neglected the majority of offenders managed in the community. We provide novel data on factors associated with, and motivations for, self-harm community-based young offenders. Young offenders who self-harmed reported significantly higher anxiety and depression, and lower self-esteem compared to controls who had not self-harmed. Young offenders who had harmed themselves reported predominantly internal motivations for the behavior. There was low mental health service utilization in both groups. Screening for self-harm in this population should pay particular attention to psychological risk factors. Greater recognition of risks faced by young offenders outside custody is needed.

Keywords:

• young offenders
• mental illness
• risk factors
• suicide
• self-harm