Perceptions of the Functions of Nonsuicidal Self-Injury in a College Sample

Rates of nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) are particularly high on college campuses. Commonly endorsed reasons for NSSI include interpersonal (e.g., seeking support) and intrapersonal (e.g., affect regulation) functions.

This study compared college students with and without a history of NSSI on their views of NSSI functions in order to inform gatekeeper intervention/prevention programs targeting NSSI.

The Inventory of Statements About Self-Injury, which assessed NSSI behavior and functions of NSSI, was completed by 367 college students (73% female, 95% white).

Ninety-eight participants endorsed lifetime moderate/severe NSSI, 109 endorsed minor NSSI, and 160 denied any history of NSSI. Noninjuring participants' views of NSSI functions were compared with the views held by participants with histories of NSSI. The groups did not differ in their views of the relevance of intrapersonal functions, although noninjuring individuals appeared to stress some interpersonal factors (e.g., influence) slightly more than individuals with a history of NSSI did.

These results suggest that college students generally hold similar perceptions of the functions of NSSI. Our findings suggest intervention/prevention efforts may consider broadening the selection of gatekeepers (e.g., peers with no history of NSSI) in schools and colleges to identify at-risk students and encourage help-seeking behaviors.