The Relationship between Stressful Life Events and Non-Suicidal Self-Injury among Students: The Mediating Role of Generalized Anxiety and Depression

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Department of Psychology, Ne.C., Islamic Azad University, Neyshabur, Iran.

Abstract

Introduction: While the relationship between stressful life events and non-suicidal self-injury has been explored, there has been less focus on the mediating factors involved, particularly generalized anxiety. Therefore, the primary aim of this study was to examine the roles of generalized anxiety and depression as mediators in the relationship between stressful life events and non-suicidal self-injury among students.

Method: The current research method was fundamental, cross-sectional, and descriptive of the correlation type. The study's statistical population consisted of all undergraduate students enrolled at the universities of Neyshabur during the academic year 2023-2024. A sample of 521 undergraduate students was selected using cluster sampling method. The instruments utilized in this study included the Life Stressful Events Screening Questionnaire, the Beck Depression Inventory-13, the Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item, and the Deliberate Self-Harm Inventory. Data analysis was conducted using structural equation modeling.

Result: The results of the study revealed a relationship between stressful life events, generalized anxiety, depression, and non-suicidal self-injury. Specifically, the findings indicated that generalized anxiety and depression mediate the connection between stressful life events and non-suicidal self- injury among students.

Discussion and conclusion: Stressful life events, generalized anxiety, and depression significantly influence non-suicidal self-injury among students. Researchers and experts in psychology should focus on these variables to develop effective pathological models and treatment strategies.

Keywords

Clinical Psychology and Personality

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 08 September 2025

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