Exploring student perceptions of self-harming behaviour: a qualitative study

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study aimed to explore student perceptions of self-harm to gain an in-depth understanding of their views, inform anti-stigma campaigns and promote help-seeking behaviour. Ten individual, semi-structured interviews were conducted, transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis. Students’ perceptions were characterised by a number of themes, including global and local culture, judgment in relation to people and behaviours, and defining self-harm. Findings suggest that current definitions of self-harm should incorporate emotional pain in their explanations to more fully encompass students’ understanding. Further, anti-stigma campaigns should be mindful of culture and focus on addressing both perceptions of those who self-harm, and the behaviour itself. Educational environments might be well placed to implement stigma reduction campaigns and promote help-seeking.