Here's why it's difficult to pinpoint a single origin:
* Common Sense: The idea that people who are hurting themselves might hurt others is a common-sense observation.
* Psychological Understanding: Psychology and sociology have long studied the correlation between personal pain and aggression or harmful actions.
* Informal Use: The phrase "hurt people" is likely used informally and frequently in everyday conversations, making it hard to track its first appearance.
While we cannot find a specific origin for the phrase, its meaning is clear: it highlights the potential connection between personal suffering and harmful behavior. It's important to remember that this is a general statement and not everyone who is hurting will act out in harmful ways.