Chronicity of self-harming behaviors among adolescent teenage girls living in refugee settlements in Northern Uganda

Article Authors: Mark. M. Kaggwa., Joan. Abaatyo., Donald. Otika., Pebalo. F. Pebolo., Felix. Bongomin., 2024

Abstract


Background

Self-harming ideations demand targeted research due to their persistent nature, especially among female adolescents within refugee populations who face unique challenges that can exacerbate self-harming tendencies. This study aimed to assess the factors associated with self-harming ideations chronicity among female teenagers living in refugee settlement in Northern Uganda.

Method

This cross-sectional study used a pretested questionnaire to assess self-harming ideations and other demographic characteristics. Ordinal logistic regression was used to determine factors associated with chronicity of self-harm ideations.

Results Of 385 participants, the prevalence of self-harming ideations was 4.2% (n=16) for acute, 8% (n=31) for subacute, and 3.1% (n=12) for chronic. The likelihood of having more chronic self-harming ideations increased with having ever been pregnant (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]=3.78, 95% Confidence Interval [CI]=1.57–9.08). However, having a spouse as the family head reduced the likelihood of having more chronic self-harming ideations (aOR=0.19, 95% CI=0.04–0.95).

Conclusions The persistence of self-harming thoughts among female teenagers in Northern Ugandan refugee settlements varies. Pregnancy history is associated with a higher chance of prolonged self-harming thoughts while having a spouse as the family’s head is linked with a lower likelihood. Examining different demographic and familial elements when addressing the mental well-being of female teenage refugees is vital. It stresses the necessity for customized interventions and support networks targeting the reduction of self-harm behaviors among this vulnerable group.

Bibliographical metadata

Journal BMC Psychology
DOI https://doi.org/10.1186/s40359-024-01897-1
Keywords
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