Differences between Current and Past Self-Injurers: How and Why Do People Stop?

Abstract

This research sought to clarify how some self-injurers cease the behavior, maintaining this for at least 1 year. Using the Experiential Avoidance Model (EAM), we examined whether characteristics of self-injurers remain in people who have successfully ceased self-injury and what, by implication, might be targeted to improve therapeutic efficacy. The study was conducted using an online cross-sectional survey of 215 first-year university students. Past self-injurers (34) scored significantly better on subscales of the General Health Questionnaire, as well as Distress Tolerance, Experiential Avoidance, and Self-blame compared to Current self-injurers (29). The Experiential Avoidance Model is a useful basis for understanding self-injury, and informing therapeutic approaches. Reducing Anxiety, and developing Tolerance and Positive Emotional Intensity may be keys to ceasing self-injury.

Keywords:

• cessation
• experiential avoidance model
• non-suicidal self-injury
• NSSI

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Michelle Horgan

Michelle Horgan, BPsych, The University of Queensland, Australia.

Graham Martin

Graham Martin MD, MBBS, FRANZCP, DPM1, The University of Queensland, Australia.