Why alternative teenagers self-harm: Exploring the link between non-suicidal self-injury, attempted suicide and adolescent identity.

The term Ôself-harmÕ encompasses both attempted suicide and non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI). Specific adolescent subpopulations such as ethnic or sexual minorities, and more controversially, those who identify as ÔAlternativeÕ (Goth, Emo) have been proposed as being more likely to self-harm, while other groups such as ÔJocksÕ are linked with protective coping behaviours (for example exercise). NSSI has autonomic (it reduces negative emotions) and social (it communicates distress or facilitates group ÔbondingÕ) functions. This study explores the links between such aspects of self-harm, primarily NSSI, and youth subculture.