An exploratory study of nonsuicidal self-injury and suicidal behaviors in adolescent Latinas.

• DOI: 10.1037/ort0000073
• Publication Date: 2015-06-08T19:09:25Z
• Authors: Lauren E. Gulbas; Carolina Hausmann...; Susan M. De Luca; Tee R. Tyler; Luis H. Zayas
• Keywords: Situational ethics

To date, there is little research to validate empirically differences between nonsuicidal self-injurious behavior (NSSI) and attempted suicide among Latina adolescents. Understanding the characteristics contextual features of self-harmful behaviors teens a critical public health social justice matter given disproportionate rates anticipated population growth this vulnerable group. In article, we draw on an ecodevelopmental model focus attention factors in sociocultural environment that shape suicidal NSSIs. Through analysis qualitative interviews conducted with girls who used NSSI (n = 18), 29), 8,) had no reported lifetime history self-harm 28), describe shaped psychosocial vulnerabilities gave rise decisions use or attempt suicide. Our revealed adolescents engaged perceived their negative feelings as something could be controlled through acts, whereas powerlessness was theme underlying emotional states When ceased function mechanism for control, came sudden Most identified specific, often multiple, situations induced intense affective inflict self-harm. Two situational experiences emerged particularly salient promising subsequent studies adolescents: transnational stress bullying. We each these offer suggestions future practice.