Decoding nonsuicidal self-injury profiles and characteristics of nonsuicidal self-injury using latent class analysis

There are numerous risk factors associated with nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI), contributing to the heterogeneity of the NSSI population. Differences in characteristics may exist between different subgroups. This study attempted to delineate distinct profiles and intervention strategies tailored to specific subgroups of NSSI.

This cross-sectional survey recruited 96,218 participants from 63 universities in China. All variables were measured using corresponding self-report questionnaires. Latent class analysis was conducted to determine different subgroups of NSSI. Analysis of variance and chi-square tests were conducted to investigate the differences across subgroups. Logistic regression analysis was employed to further examine the relationship between subgroups and suicidal thoughts and behaviors.

A total of 8,315 (8.6%) participants reported NSSI, mostly aged 18-24 years. Four subgroups were identified. The largest class, Class 2 (3,488 [41.9%]), predominantly faced mental health challenges, followed by low risk in Class 4 (2,558 [30.8%]), childhood trauma combined with mental health problems in Class 1 (1,323 [15.9%]), and childhood neglect in Class 3 (946 [11.4%]). Class 1 reported the highest rates of a history of psychiatric diagnosis (depression [32.5%]) and exhibited the lowest socioeconomic status. In addition, Class 1 showed the highest odds of reporting suicide plans (OR = 2.36; 95% confidence interval [2.02, 2.76]) and attempts (OR = 3.81; 95% confidence interval [3.14, 4.61]).

This study identified four distinct subgroups of NSSI among youths and decoded their unique profiles. Targeted intervention strategies for each subgroup were crucial, particularly in enhancing the identification and treatment of coexisting childhood trauma, mental health problems, and substance abuse. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved).