What Lies Behind Adolescent Self-Harm Behavior? Psychologists Reveal the "Triangle Relationship" of Negative Emotions, Sleep, and Diet

What Lies Behind Adolescent Self-Harm Behavior? Psychologists Reveal the "Triangle Relationship" of Negative Emotions, Sleep, and Diet

Adolescent Non-Suicidal Self-Injury (NSSI) Phenomenon

Today let's discuss adolescent non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI). Don't underestimate it—this self-harm behavior can lurk in the shadows, silently stirring up storms in adolescents' lives, causing serious consequences like declining learning ability, poor concentration, interpersonal collapse, family tension, and soaring crime risks.

Why Do Adolescents Engage in Self-Harm?

Research finds the main culprits are negative emotions, sleep conditions, and dietary habits. These factors intertwine, forming a complex psychological network.

Research Background and Methods

Recently, researchers recruited 4,040 middle school students aged 12-18 from five schools. From November 2023 to January 2024, they conducted comprehensive surveys using carefully designed questionnaires—covering basic information, inner negative emotions, self-harm behaviors, sleep quality, and dietary habits, leaving nothing out.

Core Findings

Close Link Between Negative Emotions and Low Self-Esteem

Among self-harming adolescents, negative emotions and low self-esteem are like intertwined vines, closely connected.

Deep Impact of Anxiety Symptoms

These children are deeply mired in anxiety symptoms—injury avoidance and social anxiety become clear warning signs.

Key Role of Anhedonia

Anhedonia is the crucial "hub" in the network, firmly occupying the core position like a sturdy bridge connecting various factors.

Key Risk Factors

Emotional Issues

Negative emotions like depression, anxiety, social avoidance

Sleep Disorders

Becoming night owls or sleepyheads, poor sleep quality

Abnormal Eating Habits

Choosing only junk food, irregular eating patterns

Practical Intervention Suggestions

Emotional Support

Parents and teachers should become understanding companions—chat more with children, listen attentively to their troubles, letting them know they're supported.

Encourage Exercise

Take children to play sports or hike on weekends, experiencing exercise's exhilaration. Or enroll them in interest clubs to meet like-minded friends.

Improve Sleep

Don't let phones/computers dominate sleep time—create quiet, comfortable sleep environments. Take warm baths before bed, drink warm milk.

Healthy Diet

Feed children more vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and legumes—reduce unhealthy foods like soda, fast food, and sweets.

Summary and Action Guide

In summary, we must work together to keep the "big monster" of self-harm outside the door, building strong psychological fortresses for adolescents. When noticing children experiencing depression, sleep disorders, or abnormal eating habits, never take it lightly—provide timely care and support, helping them march forward courageously on the sunny path of growth.