#South Korea #Jeonbuk National University #Self-harm #Jeonbuk-do #Positive Parenting

Understanding the Role of Parenting in Adolescent Self-Harm

Recent research led by Jeonbuk National University sheds light on the profound impact of parenting styles on adolescent self-harm. This critical study points to the increasing rates of self-harm behaviors among teens, highlighting an urgent need for effective intervention strategies.

Self-harm, often a reflection of emotional distress, takes many forms and can lead to severe mental health issues. It has been reported that adolescents experience self-harm more than any other age group, resulting in heightened risks of repeated harmful behaviors and long-term psychological difficulties.

Research Background

As part of their investigation, Professor Myeong Sook Yoon and Associate Professor Kyu-Hyoung Jeong gathered data from the 2021 Mental Health Survey of Adolescents conducted by the Korea Youth Policy Institute. The research included 3,940 participants, primarily from middle and high schools aged between 12 and 17. The methodology employed was the Korean version of the Parents as Social Context Questionnaire for Adolescents, aimed at categorizing parenting styles and their relationship with self-harm.

The findings revealed a concerning statistic: approximately 24.9% of surveyed students had engaged in self-harm, with middle school students showing higher tendencies towards such behavior compared to their high school counterparts.

Different Parenting Styles Identified

The researchers identified three distinct parenting styles perceived by the adolescents: 1) negative parenting, 2) average parenting, and 3) positive parenting. The negative parenting group exhibited harmful traits, such as rejection and inconsistency, while those categorized under the average parenting style displayed a mix of positive and negative influences. In contrast, the positive parenting style, which constituted the largest segment of responses, was characterized by warmth, support, and structured guidance.

The analysis highlighted a stark correlation: adolescents from the negative parenting group were significantly more likely to self-harm, whereas those from positive parenting backgrounds had a notably lower risk of engaging in self-injurious behaviors.

Importance of Positive Parenting

Dr. Jeong emphasized that positive parenting techniques—demonstrated through warmth, respect for the child's autonomy, and structured decision-making guidance—serve as a protective factor against self-harm. These findings underscore the critical need for educational programs that equip parents with the knowledge and tools to foster healthy parenting practices.

Moreover, it reveals the importance of a supportive community when parents face challenges, suggesting that interventions from schools and counseling centers can play an integral role in establishing a safety net for at-risk adolescents.

Conclusion and Next Steps

This research marks a significant milestone in understanding the complexities of parenting styles and their effects on adolescent mental health. By recognizing how different approaches to parenting can influence behavioral outcomes, we can better address the rising issue of self-harm in teenagers.

Future efforts should focus on implementing strategic interventions tailored to enhance positive parenting practices, ultimately contributing to a healthier, more supportive environment for adolescents navigating the challenges of their formative years.

References

• - Title of original paper: Do parenting styles influence self-harm behaviors in adolescents?
• - Journal: Acta Psychologica
• - DOI: 10.1016/j.actpsy.2025.105337