Effects of Group Psychotherapy for Nonsuicidal Self-Injury: A Meta-Analysis

ABSTRACT

Nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) is prevalent and concerning among adolescents and adults. Although prior meta-analytic work has considered the efficacy of individual psychotherapy for reducing NSSI, the efficacy of group psychotherapy remains unclear. We conducted a systematic meta-analysis of group psychotherapy studies with NSSI measures. We identified a total of eight studies, including published articles (n = 6) or dissertations (n = 2) with 10 total effect sizes for group interventions. Overall, random-effects meta-analysis suggests that group psychotherapies have a significant small effect on NSSI. However, when corrected for publication bias, the effect is no longer significant. This meta-analysis cautiously suggests that group psychotherapies, which are cost-effective and efficient, hold promise for attenuating NSSI. The field would benefit from further study and treatment refinement, including consideration of what works for whom.

DISCLOSURE STATEMENT

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Funding

The work was supported by the American Group Psychotherapy Association.

Notes on contributors

Sara R. Masland

Sara Masland is an Assistant Professor of Psychological Science at Pomona College and a California Licensed Psychologist. Ellen Finch received her Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Harvard University, where she is currently a Doctoral Candidate. Sophie Schnell received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychological Science from Pomona College.

Ellen F. Finch

Sara Masland is an Assistant Professor of Psychological Science at Pomona College and a California Licensed Psychologist. Ellen Finch received her Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Harvard University, where she is currently a Doctoral Candidate. Sophie Schnell received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychological Science from Pomona College.

Sophie E. Schnell

Sara Masland is an Assistant Professor of Psychological Science at Pomona College and a California Licensed Psychologist. Ellen Finch received her Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Harvard University, where she is currently a Doctoral Candidate. Sophie Schnell received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychological Science from Pomona College.