An exploration of the association between family functioning and nonsuicidal self-injury among Chinese adolescents with mood disorders

Abstract

Background and objectives

This study explored the correlation between nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) and family functioning among adolescents aged 12 to 17 years with mood disorders.

Methods

A total of 142 participants were clinically assessed for NSSI, with 85 in the NSSI group and 57 in the non-NSSI group. The correlation between NSSI and family functioning was compared and a regression prediction model was constructed to determine the risk probability of NSSI.

Results

A significant association was found between family functioning and NSSI (P = 0.017). The correlation between adolescents with NSSI and gender, communication, affective responsiveness, and behaviour control was statistically significant. A nomogram graph and ROC curve were constructed, with an AUC of 0.772.

Conclusion

The findings support the notion that family functioning is associated with a higher risk for NSSI among adolescents with mood disorders. Furthermore, gender, communication, affective responsiveness, and behaviour control may be contributing factors.