Deliberate self-harm in a sample of sub-Saharan African youths: Adverse childhood experiences, self-esteem, and gender as factors

Abstract

This study investigated the roles of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), self-esteem, and gender on deliberate self-harm in a sample of Sub-Saharan African youths. Six hundred (600) students drawn from the University of Nigeria Nsukka, participated in the study. They comprised 300 males and 300 females with the age range of 18-26 years (Mean age = 21.84, SD = 1.18years). Three instruments were employed for data collection: Adverse Childhood Experiences International Questionnaire (ACEs-IQ), Rosenberg Self Esteem Scale (RSES), and the Self Harm Inventory (SHI). Hierarchical multiple regression was employed for data analysis. Results showed that ACEs predicted increased deliberate self-harm (β =-.02, t (420) =-5.27, p<.001).Self-esteem negatively predicted deliberate self-harm (β= -.39, t (420)= -8.85), while gender did not predict deliberate self-harm ( β = -.02, t(420)=-.49, p<.001). The findings suggest that the general public especially the parents and caregivers should be educated and sensitized on the negative impact of ACEs to help reduce and alleviate the occurrence of deliberate self-harm among youths. Strategies to inculcate a healthy sense of self among youths are also recommended.