Stressful Experiences in University Predict Non-suicidal Self-Injury Through Emotional Reactivity

Abstract

Theoretical perspectives on non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI; direct and deliberate self-injury without lethal intent such as self-cutting or hitting) have long underscored the affective regulating properties of NSSI. Less attention has been given to the processes through which individuals choose to engage in NSSI, specifically, to regulate their distress. In the present study, we tested one theoretical model in which recent stressful experiences facilitates NSSI through emotional reactivity. Further, we tested whether the indirect link between stressful experiences and NSSI was moderated by several NSSI specific risk factors (e.g., having friends who engage in NSSI). Given the widespread prevalence of NSSI among community-based samples of adolescents and emerging adults, we surveyed 1,125 emerging adults in first-year university at a large academic institution (72% female, Mage = 17.96, 25% with a recent history of NSSI at Time 1). Participants completed an online survey three times (assessments were 4 months apart), reporting on their recent stressful experiences in university, emotional reactivity, NSSI, as well as three NSSI specific risk factors (i.e., close friend engagement in NSSI, high self-disgust, and low fear of pain). As expected, path analysis revealed that there was a significant indirect effect of recent stressful experiences on NSSI engagement, through emotional reactivity. However, this effect was maintained across moderator analyses. These novel findings underscore the salient role of proximally occurring stressors in the prediction of NSSI among emerging adults in university, and can inform developing theoretical perspectives on NSSI.

Non-suicidal self-injury among first-year college students and its association with mental disorders: results from the World Mental Health International College Student (WMH-ICS) initiative

“…Accordingly, students may use emotion-regulating behaviors like self-injury to cope with college-related stressful experiences (Hamza, Goldstein, Heath, & Ewing, 2021). Researchers have observed that 25–63% of those with adolescent-onset NSSI continue to self-injure (Glenn & Klonsky, 2011; Hamza & Willoughby, 2014), and 7% begin repetitive NSSI during the college years (Kiekens et al, 2019).…”

Efficacy of a Psycho-Educational and Socio-Emotional Intervention Programme for Adolescents

“…In addition, they frequently verbalise feelings of hatred towards the people around them or even towards themselves, an indication of self-esteem problems. Some even involved episodes of self-harm [41][42][43].…”

Emotional Reactivity in Adolescents With Non-suicidal Self-injury and Its Predictors: A Longitudinal Study

“…The ERS total had a significant positive correlation with less appropriate coping skills (e.g., passive depressive reaction patterns and avoidance) and a negative correlation with adequate coping skills (e.g., active problem solving) (29). A study in Canada surveyed 1,125 young adults in their first year of study at a large academic institution and found an indirect effect of recent stressful experiences on NSSI engagement through ER (30). According to Nock et al (23) examining the longitudinal course of ER and its expected relationship to psychopathology and self-injurious thoughts and behaviors is an interesting and likely fruitful area for research.…”