Self-Harm in Young People From Disadvantaged Neighborhoods in Turkey: A Grounded Theory Analysis of Contextual Risks and Functions

To effectively prevent and address self-harm behavior (SHB), it is crucial to understand the relational and social contexts of young people (YP) who engage in SHB, as well as the meanings they ascribe to their behavior. The aim of study is to gain a deeper understanding of the processes SHB among YP in disadvantaged neighborhoods in Turkey. The research examines the factors that contribute to SHB and how YP interpret this behavior. In-depth interviews were conducted with 20 YP, aged 14 to 24, who demonstrated moderate SHB that did not lead to mutilation. Through the application of Embodied Grounded Theory, findings were organized into 11 sub-categories and 4 main categories and presents a model proposal for understanding the SHB journeys of these YP. The findings highlight the significance of the meanings attached to SHB in its onset and persistence, besides the influence of social and relational contexts on these meanings.