Exploring Peer Factors in South Korean Youths' Reactions to Non-Suicidal Self-Injury

Youths across cultures show an alarming prevalence of non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI). This study explored the effects of perceived peer popularity and relationship closeness on the reactions of youths with no NSSI history to peers engaging in NSSI. Two hundred and eighty young Koreans (mean age = 17.06) were asked about how they would respond to four hypothetical self-injuring characters. The results revealed that the participants evaluated unpopular peers and their NSSI more favorably, but were more willing to personally provide help to peers they were closer with, regardless of popularity. For close friends, the participants were more willing to provide emotional help than behavioral help, and their own unstable psychological conditions were associated with agreeable evaluations about NSSI. This paper provides suggestions for school counselors concerning youths’ social experiences and mental health.