The psychological consequences for parents of adolescents grappling with non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) have been thrust into the spotlight following a groundbreaking qualitative study leveraging Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems theory. This research offers an invaluable lens through which to view the complexities and challenges faced by these parents within varying environmental contexts. Understanding the multifaceted nature of NSSI not only benefits the adolescents but also resonates deeply with their caregivers, who navigate an emotional landscape laden with distress and resilience.
Non-suicidal self-injury — defined by deliberate harm without suicidal intent — represents a critical mental health dilemma affecting today’s youth. The rates of self-injurious behaviors among adolescents are alarmingly high, amplifying the urgency for comprehensive studies that explore the familial dynamics surrounding this phenomenon. Families are often left grappling with misunderstanding, fear, and helplessness as they strive to support their children. This study uniquely highlights the experiences of parents, bringing to light their emotional turmoil and the resulting impact on their overall well-being.
Conducted between April and September 2024, the researchers engaged eighteen parents from the mental health department of a tertiary hospital in northern China through semistructured interviews. These discussions were meticulously based on Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems theory, which emphasizes the interactions between individuals and their various environmental contexts. This theoretical framework allowed the researchers to extract deeper insights into how both individual experiences and broader societal factors converge to influence parental perceptions and responses to NSSI.
Throughout the interviews, diverse themes emerged, revealing a rich tapestry of emotions, coping strategies, and expectations. The micro-system theme underscored the dualities of emotional distress and growth observed among parents. Constant exposure to their child’s struggles often led to persistent negative emotions, including anxiety and depression. However, some parents reported personal growth following the adjustment process. Enlightenment about mental health issues allowed them to transform their approach and develop improved management capabilities, illustrating resilience amidst ongoing challenges.
The meso-system theme provided further insights into the lifestyle changes that caregivers undergo. Many reported feeling compelled to abandon their social lives due to the stigma surrounding NSSI, leading to isolation. Additionally, these challenges extended beyond the affected adolescent, influencing sibling relationships and generating family discord. Financial strains were reported as indirect consequences of seeking mental health care, with some parents emphasizing the difficulty of balancing costs with the need for effective support. This burden can create a tense family atmosphere that may exacerbate the situation.
At the exo-system level, the study revealed a pervasive sense of vulnerability due to a weak support system. Parents expressed frustration over the limited availability of psychiatric services, underscoring the pressing need for enhanced resources. Many parents desired additional support networks, feeling alone in their struggles. The lack of external help complicates their ability to provide adequate support for their children, ultimately leading to feelings of helplessness and desperation.
Culturally, the macro-system theme encapsulated the profound influences of societal beliefs and attitudes toward mental health. In China, cultural stigma surrounding mental health issues can deter families from seeking necessary assistance. This environmental factor compounds the challenges faced by parents, who are often left to navigate such complexities in isolation. Overall, the research poignantly highlighted the layered barriers that inhibit parental engagement with mental health services, underscoring the urgent need for societal change.
The conclusions drawn from the qualitative study reveal a pressing need to improve the support systems available to parents of adolescents with NSSI. A multifaceted approach involving both psychological intervention and educational outreach is essential. Such initiatives could enhance the mental health level and coping abilities of parents, ultimately fostering a better environment for recovering adolescents. Increased accessibility to both online and offline resources may alleviate some of the burdens these families face, providing them with the tools necessary to engage meaningfully in their children’s recovery.
Moreover, public awareness campaigns aimed at mental health literacy can play a pivotal role in transforming societal attitudes. By dispelling myths and providing accurate information about NSSI, families could feel more empowered to seek help without judgment. It is crucial that mental health services evolve to accommodate the unique needs of families grappling with these challenges. Establishing comprehensive educational programs for parents could foster a sense of community, reinforcing the notion that they are not alone in their experiences.
Transitioning from isolation to engagement requires a concerted effort from various stakeholders, including mental health professionals, community organizations, and policymakers. By addressing the identified gaps in support systems and emphasizing the importance of parental involvement in treatment, it becomes possible to create environments conducive to healing for both adolescents and their families. Collaborative efforts can bridge the divide between medical support and community understanding, fostering a more compassionate environment that prioritizes holistic health.
Ultimately, this study stands as a testament to the necessity of examining the broader context of non-suicidal self-injury within adolescent populations. Focusing solely on the individual fails to capture the intricate web of influences that shape the experiences of both adolescents and their caregivers. As the discourse around adolescent mental health continues to evolve, it is vital that research remains centered on understanding these relational dynamics, ensuring a comprehensive approach toward intervention and support.
The psychological landscape for parents of adolescents with NSSI is complex and multifaceted. It encompasses distress, growth, social isolation, and cultural stigma. In order to address these challenges effectively, future research should continue exploring these themes while advocating for systemic changes that provide robust support systems for families. With dedicated efforts towards education, intervention, and community engagement, the prevailing narrative surrounding NSSI can shift toward one of understanding, compassion, and resilience.
Subject of Research: Psychological experiences of parents of adolescent patients with non-suicidal self-injury.
Article Title: Psychological experiences of parents of adolescent patients with non-suicidal self-injury: a qualitative study based on Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems theory.
Article References: Hu, YL., Shi, Y., Qiao, GZ. et al. Psychological experiences of parents of adolescent patients with non-suicidal self-injury: a qualitative study based on Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems theory. BMC Psychiatry 25, 366 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12888-025-06812-5
Image Credits: Scienmag.com
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12888-025-06812-5
Keywords: Non-suicidal self-injury, parents, psychological experiences, Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems theory, mental health, adolescent mental health, qualitative study.
