Abstract:
This cross-sectional, exploratory study aimed to determine the prevalence and characteristics
of self-harming behaviours among a sample of South African university students (N = 603),
as well as the relationship between deliberate self-harm (DSH) and symptoms of depression
and anxiety. A battery of instruments, including the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II),
State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), and Deliberate Self-Harm Inventory (DSHI) was
administered to participants. Data were analysed by means of descriptive statistics, Chi
Square tests, t-tests, and logistic regression analyses. The findings suggest high rates of DSH
among the sample (46% lifetime prevalence; 36% 12-month prevalence). No significant
gender differences were found in the rates of DSH. Participants from the combined Asian
and Coloured racial group reported significantly higher rates of DSH than both White and
Black participants. Participants aged 20-21 were significantly more likely to report DSH than
those in other age groups. Overall, depression scores in the sample fell within the normal
range (M = 15.79), while anxiety scores were found to be exceptionally high (state anxiety:
M = 46.56; trait anxiety: M = 48.72). The findings suggest that participants with elevated
levels of depression are significantly more likely to report DSH. A significant, negative
relationship was found between DSH and state anxiety, while a positive yet insignificant
relationship was found between DSH and trait anxiety. The findings of this exploratory study
partially support the findings of international research investigating the relationship between
DSH and depression and anxiety, but warrant further exploration in order to better understand
the complexities of these relationships, particularly in the South African context.
