A cross-sectional study comparing predictors of non-suicidal self-injury among college students in the United States and Greece

ABSTRACT

The purpose of this study was to examine predictors of non-suicidal-self-injury (NSSI) including depression, stress, anxiety and suicidal behaviors (SIB) among students at two colleges in the USA and Greece. A convenience sample (N = 1062) was used along with the NSSI-Check List, SITBI, and DASS instruments. Significantly Greek (27%) reported higher rates of NSSI (p < .01) versus the United States students (17%). Greek students engaged in self-biting, carving, and insertion of glass objects (p < .01) at a higher rate than the USA students. A model to predict NSSI revealed Greek students who reported an absence of suicidal thoughts, being heterosexual, Christian, and under stress, were 76% more likely to engage in NSSI (p<.01). The USA students who reported an absence of suicidal thoughts and the presence of anxiety were 85% more likely to engage in NSSI (p < .01). Findings support the view that NSSI is a distinct phenomenon not necessarily related to suicidal behaviors and consistent with the NSSI diagnosis under further study (DSM-2013). As well, the high rates of NSSI along with depression, anxiety, and stress found in this study supports the literature urging NSSI be treated as a significant mental health issue.

KEYWORDS:

• Self-harm
• mental health
• cross-cultural
• college counseling
• suicide

Notes on contributors

Efrosini D. Kokaliari, PhD, is an associate professor of Social Work at Springfield College School of Social Work in Springfield, Massachusetts. Dr. Kokaliari received her MA from Tavistock Clinic, her MSW from University of Portsmouth and Hogeschoolf Utrecht, and her PhD from Smith College.

Ann W. Roy, PhD, is a professor of Social Work at Springfield College School of Social Work in Springfield, Massachusetts. Dr. Roy received her MSW from Louisiana State University and her PhD from Case Western Reserve University.

Klio Koutra, PhD, is an Assistant Professor in Community Social Work in the Department of Social Work at T.E.I Crete –Greece. Dr. Koutra received her MA in public health and her PHD from the University Of Crete Department Of Medicine.