Network analysis of positive psychological characters, depression, and non-suicidal self-injury among Chinese adolescents

To explore the network relationships among positive psychological characters (PPC), depression, and non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) in Chinese adolescents. A survey was conducted among middle school students (N = 11,320) using the positive mental characters scale for Chinese school students, center for epidemiological studies depression scale and adolescent non-suicidal self-injury assessment questionnaire. Network analysis was performed using R 4.4.2. Hope and capacity to love showed the strongest negative cross-community associations with depression dimensions and NSSI. Humility and appreciation of beauty exhibited the highest bridge centrality indices among PPC. It reveals that capacity to love and hope are particularly relevant PPC in relation to depression and NSSI, while humility and appreciation of beauty serve as important cross-community connectors linking PPC with depression and NSSI.