Psychosocial Factors of Non-suicidal Self-Injury Among Adolescents and Young Adults

Abstract

Present research examines the factors of Non-suicidal Self-Injury (NSSI) in self-injuring individuals. Sample comprised of 164 (n = 82 self-injurers, n = 82 non self-injurers) adolescents and young adults aged 16 to 24 years (M = 20.47, SD = 1.80). Family Adaptability and Cohesion Evaluation Scale-IV (Olson, 2011), Inventory of Interpersonal Problems (Horowitz, Alden, & Wiggins, 1996), Anger Self Report Questionnaire (Reynolds, Walkey, & Green, 1994), Emotional Regulation Questionnaire (Gross & John, 2003), Self-Harm Behavior Questionnaire (Osman & Guiterrez, 2001), Self-Rating Scale (Hooley, Glassman, Weierich, Deliberto, & Nock, 2002), and Demographic Information Questionnaire were used for assessment. Findings demonstrated that self-criticism, anger, emotional suppression, and interpersonal problems had significant, positive; while cognitive reappraisal, family cohesion, and communication had significant negative relationship with NSSI. Family rigidity, enmeshment, self-criticism, and anger emerged as significant positive predictors of NSSI. Cognitive reappraisal mediated the relationship between family cohesion and NSSI. Study findings enhanced the understanding of the underlying mechanisms involved in NSSI and subsequent conceptualization and treatment of adolescents and young adults with NSSI.