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Relevance: Digital self harm (DSH) – the anonymous or pseudonymous posting of self derogatory content by adolescents – is an emerging phenomenon. Our data show that 18.2% of Russian schoolchildren (grades 6–11) are involved. DSH correlates with depression, low self esteem, and suicidal risk. However, its motivational structure remains understudied, particularly in the context of digital socialisation. Objective: To identify and systematise the motives for digital self harm in adolescents based on clinical case analysis and to clarify the role of the digital environment in shaping these motives. Methods & Sample: A systematic review of international and Russian studies (2017–2024) combined with an analysis of clinical cases of adolescents aged 12–17 (N=15) with verified DSH who sought psychological help (Russia, 2024–2026). Semi structured interviews and digital footprint analysis were used. Results: Three motivational clusters were identified. Communicative motives: attracting attention, testing friendship, seeking support when offline communication is lacking. Regulatory expressive motives: emotional release, self punishment, expressing depressive feelings. Instrumental manipulative motives: demonstrating “invulnerability”, provoking reactions, strengthening group status. The digital environment amplifies these motives by normalising self destructive content, algorithmically promoting emotionally charged posts, and creating an illusion of safety. Conclusion: Digital self harm is a multi motivated phenomenon reflecting unmet adolescent needs for recognition, belonging, and emotional regulation. Effective prevention should go beyond restricting online activity. Instead, it requires creating safe educational and family environments, fostering self regulation skills, critical digital literacy, and constructive ways of seeking support.

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