Family Function and Self-Harm Behavior in Early Adolescents: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: Self-harm behavior is a form of maladaptive coping mechanism that is very harmful because it can cause injury and even threaten the individual's life. Several factors cause self-harm behavior in early adolescence, one of the factors is family dysfunction. This study aimed to determine the relationship between family functioning and self-harm behavior in early adolescents at the Agricultural Area of Jember. Method: This study used a correlational design with a cross-sectional approach. The research sample was obtained through a proportional stratified random technique with a total of 376 respondents. The independent variable in this study is family function and the dependent variable is self-harm behavior in early adolescents. Data was collected using the Family APGAR and Deliberate Self-harm Inventory (DSHI) questionnaires. Results: The result showed that family function is in the high category, 224 respondents (59,6%), and self-harm behavior is low self-harm, 319 respondents (84,8%). There is a relationship between family function and self-harm behavior in early adolescents in the agricultural area of Jember (p = 0,001 and r = -0,131) very weak and negative correlation. Poor communication between family members can lead to inner conflict and negative emotions that put individuals at risk of self-harm. The data was analyzed by Kendall's Tau C correlation test. Conclusions: Early adolescents with low family functioning are more at risk of self-harm. This study can be used as a guideline for schools, psychiatric nurses and community nurses to develop appropriate nursing interventions for early adolescents who engage in self-harm behavior.