Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) refers to the direct and deliberate destruction of one’s own body tissue without suicidal intent. Examples of NSSI are scratching, burning, hitting, and burning oneself. NSSI is highly prevalent among adolescents and young adults and can be related to internalizing and externalizing psychopathology. NSSI often originates in adolescence and is highly related to identity development. To understand the dynamics of NSSI, we will discuss several explanation models of this behavior, based on intra- en interpersonal factors that trigger and maintain NSSI. Furthermore, we will focus on the assessment of NSSI, with special attention for particular characteristics of NSSI (e.g., frequency, severity, pain sensitivity) as well as its functions (functional analyses). Finally, we will focus on important interventions during the treatment of these adolescents, such as the therapeutic relationship, emotional regulation, cognitive restructuring and finding less-harmful alternative behaviors. Special attention will be given to ‘how to deal with the contagiousness of NSSI’ as well as NSSI programs that can be applied in school-context. Hopefully, in this way, we can help adolescents to increase their self-care.
Laurence Claes1,2
1KU Leuven, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Leuven, Belgium
2University of Antwerp, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Antwerp, Belgium