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Development and validation of empirically derived frequency criteria for NSSI disorder using exploratory data mining
Brooke A Ammerman1, Ross Jacobucci2, Evan M Kleiman3
1Department of Psychology, Temple University.
Psychological Assessment
|May 14, 2016
Summary
Nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) disorder criteria require further study. Research indicates 6 or more NSSI acts may distinguish more severe self-injury from normative behavior, impacting psychopathology and quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
- Data Science
Background:
- Nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) is being considered for a distinct diagnostic category in the DSM-5.
- Limited research exists on the validity of the frequency criterion (Criterion A) for NSSI disorder.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the validity of the frequency criterion for NSSI disorder.
- To identify an optimal NSSI frequency threshold that differentiates pathological from normative self-injury behaviors in undergraduate students.
Main Methods:
- Utilized structural equation modeling trees, an exploratory data mining technique.
- Analyzed data from 3,559 undergraduate students, including 428 who engaged in NSSI in the past year.
- Incorporated psychopathology symptomology and cognitive-affective deficits associated with NSSI.
Main Results:
- A split was observed between individuals with 0 and 1 act of NSSI.
- Among those with 1+ NSSI acts, a split occurred between 5 and 6 NSSI acts in the past year.
- Individuals with 6+ NSSI acts reported higher psychopathology, cognitive-affective deficits, and lower quality of life.
Conclusions:
- Findings suggest 6 NSSI acts may signify a more severe form of self-injury.
- The proposed frequency criteria for NSSI disorder may need refinement.
- Results have implications for characterizing pathological NSSI.
