Exploring the profile and risk factors associated with self-harm ideation and behaviors in adolescents with high psychoticism
Abstract
Background: As a core personality trait closely linked to mental health outcomes, psychoticism warrants particular attention in adolescent populations. The association between elevated psychoticism levels and self-harm ideation and behaviors (SIB) remained insufficiently characterized, especially regarding specific risk profiles. This study aims to delineate SIB characteristics and identify risk factors among adolescents with high psychoticisme.
Methods: In this large scale cross-sectional study, 6,027 adolescents aged 16-18 years scoring ≥70th percentile on the psychoticism dimension (Revised Short Form of the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire, EPQ-RSC) were recruited from 63 schools. Data on demographic characteristics and SIB patterns were collected via standardized electronic questionnaires through a secure online platform. Binary logistic regression analyses with adjusted odds ratios (aOR) identified significant SIB predictors.
Results: Adolescents with high psychoticism demonstrated striking SIB prevalence patterns: 62.8% reported life meaninglessness, 47.2% expressed death wishes, and 34.7% acknowledged suicidal/NSSI ideation within the past year, with 27% specifically endorsing such ideation within the past month. Actual self-harm rates were 4.7% (lifetime), 1.64% (past year), and 0.37% (past month). Predominant triggers included family conflicts (32.9%), while primary motives centered on pain alleviation (51%). SIB incidence showed significant dose-response…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a cross-sectional, done in people. Its evidence level is 4 of 5 (Low · observational). Observational designs can show an association but not prove cause. Reported size: 6,027 participants or records.
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