Does neighbourhood identification buffer against the effects of socioeconomic disadvantage on self-harm?

McIntyre, Jason ORCID: 0000-0002-5601-524X, Elahi, Anam, Latham, Cameron, Mullholland, Helen, Haines-Delmont, Alina, Saini, Pooja ORCID: 0000-0002-4981-7914 and Taylor, Peter J (2021) Does neighbourhood identification buffer against the effects of socioeconomic disadvantage on self-harm? JOURNAL OF AFFECTIVE DISORDERS, 294. pp. 857-863.

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Abstract

<h4>Background</h4>Socioeconomic disadvantage and lack of group belonging (i.e., social identity) have been linked to poor mental health. However, no research has investigated the relationship between neighbourhood identity and self-harm, nor whether identifying with one's neighbourhood can mitigate the effects of economic stress on self-harm.<h4>Methods</h4>Pre-registered secondary data analysis of a large (N = 3412) community health survey conducted in disadvantaged areas of North West England.<h4>Results</h4>Despite the sample having a relatively high and therefore restricted level of disadvantage, individual and geographic indicators of disadvantage, as well as neighbourhood identification, were unique and strong predictors of self-harm thoughts and behaviours across several analyses. Specifically, experiencing disadvantage and disidentification predicted significantly higher odds of self-harm and self-harm thoughts. No consistent interactive effects emerged.<h4>Limitations</h4>The cross-sectional design limits firm conclusions regarding causal effects of neighbourhood identity and disadvantage on self-harm. However, causal direction is supported by past research and theory. The data is self-report, which is subject to response bias. The sample was also recruited from a region of the UK with low numbers of residents from ethnic minority backgrounds.<h4>Conclusions</h4>The results are consistent with past research indicating an association between social identity and better mental health, but for the first time extend these effects to self-harm. The findings demonstrate the importance of considering social and economic factors when attempting to prevent suicide and understand and treat self-harm thoughts.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Self-harm, Suicide, Social Identity, Socioeconomic disadvantage
Divisions:	Faculty of Health and Life Sciences Faculty of Health and Life Sciences > Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences Faculty of Health and Life Sciences > Institute of Population Health
Depositing User:	Symplectic Admin
Date Deposited:	05 May 2022 13:55
Last Modified:	30 Jan 2023 19:25
DOI:	10.1016/j.jad.2021.07.103
Related URLs:	Author Publisher
URI:	https://livrepository.liverpool.ac.uk/id/eprint/3154306