examining the role of theory of mind and emotion regulation in predicting self-harming behaviors in adolescents

Background: self-harm has emerged as a significant concern within the realm of public health, particularly during the adolescent years, where such behaviors have witnessed a notable escalation. objectives: this study aims to explore the influence of the theory of mind and emotion regulation in the anticipation of self-harming tendencies among adolescents. methods: the study was conducted using both correlational and cross-sectional design. the target population for this research consisted of all adolescents residing in tehran from april to november 2023 who had previously engaged in self-harming actions. the target population encompassed all teenagers in tehran with a history of self-harming behaviors. a sample of 89 teenagers with such a history was selected through the purposive sampling method. the research employed several measurement instruments, including the theory of mind scale, the cognitive emotion regulation questionnaire, and the self-harm inventory. the collected data were analyzed in spss version 27 software using pearson correlation and multiple regression techniques. the significance level for this research was set at 0.05. results: the current study findings indicated that the initial statement of the theory of mind had no significant impact on self-harm (p=0.593). however, the components of the introductory theory of mind (p=0.001) and advanced aspects of the theory of mind (p=0.009) had a detrimental and significant influence on self-harm. conclusion: regarding the components of the theory of mind, the introductory theory of mind and more advanced aspects have a mitigating effect on self-harm in teenagers who engage in self-harming behaviors.