TheraEdu: Journal of Therapy and Educational Psychology
Vol. 2 No. 1 (2026): TheraEdu: Journal of Therapy and Educational Psychology

The Role of Self-Esteem and Body Image as Predictors of Self-Harm Behaviors Among Secondary School Students: A Quantitative Analysis

Hengki Yandri (Institut Agama Islam Negeri Kerinci)
Dosi Juliawati (Institut Agama Islam Negeri Kerinci)
Alfaiz Alfaiz (Universitas Ma’soem)
Yuzarion Yuzarion (Universitas Ahmad Dahlan)
Rani Mega Putri (Universitas Sriwijaya)
Emeliya Hardi (Universitas Islam Negeri Mahmud Yunus Batusangkar)



Article Info

Publish Date
31 May 2026

Abstract

Self-harm among adolescents represents a significant mental health concern that requires comprehensive understanding for effective intervention development. This quantitative study examined the relationships between self-esteem, body image, and self-harm tendencies among secondary school students. Using a total sampling methodology, 65 students from State Senior High School 1 Sungai Penuh completed validated questionnaires measuring self-esteem, body image, and self-harm behaviours. Multiple linear regression analysis was conducted to assess the predictive relationships between variables. Results indicated that self-esteem and body image combined explained 44.4% of the variance in self-harm behaviours (R² = 0.444), with both independent variables showing significant collective influence on self-harm tendencies. The remaining 55.6% of variance suggests the involvement of additional psychological, environmental, and contextual factors not captured in this study. These findings underscore the importance of developing comprehensive counseling and mental health interventions that address self-esteem enhancement and body image acceptance as preventive strategies for self-harm among adolescents. Implications for school-based guidance and counseling programs are discussed

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Journal Info

Abbrev

theraedu

Publisher

Subject

Education Social Sciences Other

Description

TheraEdu: Journal of Therapy and Educational Psychology is a peer-reviewed journal published by Asosiasi Asesmen Pendidikan (AAP). TheraEdu is an academic journal that publishes research and scientific studies in the field of therapy and educational psychology. This journal aims to disseminate ...