ERIC Number: EJ1069569
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2015-Sep
Pages: 19
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0022-4391
EISSN: N/A
Developing a Policy to Address Nonsuicidal Self-Injury in Schools
Berger, Emily; Hasking, Penelope; Reupert, Andrea
Journal of School Health, v85 n9 p629-647 Sep 2015
Background: Nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) is an increasing and serious concern in schools. The purpose of this study was to determine the suitability of a new policy for responding to NSSI in schools. Methods: Teachers and other school staff, including year level coordinators, psychologists, and counselors, N?=?48, reviewed a policy for addressing NSSI in schools and provided written feedback. Results: The majority of staff worked in schools without a policy regarding NSSI, or were unsure whether their school had such a policy. Participants were generally positive about the presented policy and supported its implementation in schools. Perceived challenges to policy implementation included a lack of knowledge about NSSI among staff and limited referral services available to students who self-injure. Suggested changes included developing a flowchart of the referral process and increasing collaboration between school staff, changes which were subsequently implemented. Conclusion: Awareness and education for school staff regarding NSSI combined with school policies for responding to adolescents who self-injure are recommended to enhance management of NSSI in schools, and improve the health and well-being of adolescents who self-injure.
Descriptors: Injuries, Self Destructive Behavior, School Policy, Focus Groups, Policy Formation, Program Implementation, Cooperative Planning, Coordinators, School Psychologists, School Counselors, Guidance Programs, Referral, Familiarity, Knowledge Level, Flow Charts, Agency Cooperation, Staff Development, Ancillary School Services
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A