Non-suicidal self-injury in developing countries: A review

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Global Mental Health
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) is recognized as a behavioral manifestation of emotional distress, serving as a coping mechanism for transient psychological relief.
• Historically, NSSI has been viewed as a maladaptive behavior, differentiated from suicide by the absence of suicidal intent.
• There is a growing trend in psychiatric practice to medicalize psychological distress and maladaptive behaviors, including NSSI.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively review the prevalence of NSSI in developing countries.
• To identify factors associated with NSSI in these regions.
• To explore the psychological and social significance of NSSI within developing country contexts.

Main Methods:

• This study employed a narrative review methodology.
• A systematic search identified 1,094 relevant articles.
• Thirteen articles were selected for detailed analysis regarding NSSI prevalence and methods in developing countries.

Main Results:

• NSSI prevalence rates exhibit significant variability, ranging from 11.5% to 33.8%, influenced by sample characteristics and study design.
• Global NSSI rates demonstrate an increasing trend, extending to developing countries.
• Emerging data suggests NSSI is nearly as prevalent in developing countries as in developed Western nations.

Conclusions:

• The notion that NSSI is predominantly a phenomenon of developed Western countries is not supported by recent data.
• While prevalence is similar across developed and developing countries, the meaning, context, and reasons for NSSI may differ.
• NSSI represents a significant global mental health issue requiring culturally sensitive approaches.