Select two risk factors for self-harming behavior. a. Having high self-esteem b being a teenager or young adult c. Being female d. having never abused drugs or alcohol I know its going to be something funny and I’m gonna feel dumb asking it but its for my final test of the semester
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
**Correct answer:
**b. Being a teenager or young adult
c. Being female
Explanation
Self-harming behavior, also known as non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI), refers to the deliberate infliction of pain or injury on oneself without suicidal intent. Understanding risk factors associated with self-harm is essential for early identification and prevention efforts.
Two major risk factors consistently identified in research are being a teenager or young adult and being female.
Adolescence and young adulthood are critical developmental periods characterized by significant emotional, social, and psychological changes. During this stage, individuals experience intense emotions, identity exploration, peer pressure, and increased vulnerability to mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety. These factors can contribute to emotional dysregulation, which is a common underlying cause of self-harming behavior. Young people may engage in self-harm as a way to cope with overwhelming emotions, stress, or interpersonal conflict, particularly when healthier coping strategies have not yet been developed.
Gender is another important risk factor. Studies consistently show that females, particularly adolescent girls, report higher rates of self-harm than males. Several explanations exist for this trend. First, females are more likely to internalize emotional distress, which can manifest as self-harming behavior. Second, societal and cultural expectations around appearance, emotional expression, and social relationships may place unique pressures on young women, increasing their risk. Furthermore, females are often more willing to disclose self-harming behaviors, potentially contributing to higher reported rates compared to males.
In contrast, having high self-esteem and never abusing drugs or alcohol are generally considered protective factors rather than risk factors. These characteristics are associated with better emotional regulation and resilience, which reduce the likelihood of engaging in self-harm.
Recognizing these risk factors can help educators, caregivers, and health professionals identify at-risk individuals and connect them with appropriate support and intervention resources.
