– Self-harm is a serious indicator of the profound impact violence and abuse have on youth.

What do you consider the most important finding in the study?

The most significant finding is that as many as nearly 53 percent of youth with documented experience of violence have self-harmed. This is significantly higher than in the general population, where approximately 16 percent of youth report such behavior. Most critically, one in three have done so ten times or more, which we know increases the risk of children and young people in the same family developing similar behavior.

What was the motivation for investigating self-harm in this group?

We know from previous research that childhood violence increases the risk of mental health problems, but there have been few studies examining self-harm in a group with documented experience of violence. Additionally, we wanted to investigate how the risk varies depending on the type of violence, how many types one has been exposed to, and whether there is also a burden within the family. It turned out to be similar for all types of violence, except for sexual abuse, where the prevalence was somewhat higher.

How do these youth differ from other youth in the general population?

They have a much higher prevalence of self-harm, and it is also clear that many have been exposed to multiple types of violence. In addition, a large proportion (17.5%) report that close family members have attempted suicide or self-harmed, which we know can increase the risk of children and young people in the family exhibiting similar behavior.

Were there any findings that surprised you?

I was surprised by how many had experience with repeated self-harm. The fact that 36 percent of those who have self-harmed have done so 10 times or more demonstrates the severity of the situation. We expected a high prevalence, but this was even more extensive than we had anticipated. It was also thought-provoking that emotional violence and neglect carried as high a risk as physical and sexual violence.

What do these findings mean for professionals working with youth?

It is absolutely essential to assess self-harm when working with children and young people who have been exposed to violence or abuse. Particular attention should be paid to those who have been exposed to multiple types of violence, and where there are similar experiences within the family. The risk of self-harm is not limited to the most “visible” types of violence, so a broad assessment is necessary.

How can these results be applied in practice?

We hope the findings contribute to strengthening both assessment and follow-up. Self-harm is an important warning sign and often a way for youth to express pain when they lack other coping strategies. Interventions are needed that address underlying mental health difficulties and build skills for emotional regulation. Families should also be included in treatment when possible.

What do you hope the study can achieve?

I hope it contributes to increased awareness of how common self-harm is among youth who have been exposed to violence. We must ensure that this is identified early and met with targeted assistance. It is important that we do not overlook the less visible forms of violence, and that we acknowledge how such experiences can affect an entire lifespan.

Read more about the study here.