Exploring how bystanders can help prevent self-directed violence among marginalized youth.
Official title: Understanding Bystanders for Self-Directed Violence Prevention: A Prospective National Study Highlighting Marginalized Youth and Young Adults
Funded at University of New Hampshire · NIH-10981831 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at what encourages young people, especially those from diverse backgrounds, to step in and help when they see someone struggling with thoughts of self-harm, so we can better understand how to support both the helpers and those in need.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of New Hampshire NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | September 13, 2021 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $353,375 |
| NIH project number | 3R01MH128269-04S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10981831 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include youth and young adults aged 13-22, particularly those who identify as sexual or gender minorities or belong to racial and ethnic minority groups.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are outside the age range of 13-22 or do not identify with marginalized groups may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the factors that influence bystander behavior in preventing self-directed violence (SDV) among youth and young adults, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds. It involves a national longitudinal survey that collects data from nearly 5,000 participants aged 13-22, focusing on their experiences with SDV and their willingness to engage in helping behaviors. The study aims to understand the attitudes and contexts that lead to effective bystander interventions, as well as the impact of these interventions on both the bystanders and those at risk. By examining diverse sub-groups, the research seeks to highlight the unique challenges faced by sexual, gender, racial, and ethnic minority youth.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing self-directed violence among at-risk youth, ultimately saving lives.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding bystander interventions in various contexts, but this specific focus on marginalized youth and SDV is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of New Hampshire
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mitchell Lema, Kimberly J — University of New Hampshire
- Study coordinator: Mitchell Lema, Kimberly J
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.