Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 6, 2025

Design and Implementation of an fMRI Study Examining Thought Suppression in Young Women with, and At-risk, for Depression
Published on: May 19, 2015
Modeling pathways to non-suicidal self-injury: The roles of perfectionism, negative affect, rumination, and attention
Kate E Tonta1, Mark Boyes1,2, Joel Howell1
1School of Population Health, Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia, Australia.
Objective:
Using the Emotional Cascade Model as a theoretical framework, this study tested whether the relationship between perfectionism and non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) operates through rumination and negative affect. Additionally, we tested whether the associations between perfectionism and both rumination and negative affect are moderated by attention control.
Methods:
Using a correlational cross-sectional design, adults aged 18-25 with (N = 197) and without (N = 271) a history of NSSI completed measures of perfectionism, rumination, negative affect, attention control, and NSSI.
Results:
Perfectionism was directly associated with increased odds of NSSI, and indirectly associated with odds of NSSI through rumination and negative affect. The relationship between perfectionism and rumination was moderated by attention focusing, such that the relationship was stronger for individuals who were higher in attention focusing.
Conclusion:
Integrating perfectionism and attention with existing models of NSSI may improve understanding of the factors contributing to NSSI and offers insights into future clinical directions.
Related Concept Videos
Modeling in Therapy
Participant Modeling
Participant modeling involves therapists demonstrating calm and effective behaviors in...
Self-Evaluation Maintenance Model
Self-Discrepancy Theory
Self-Presentation: Self-Monitoring and Self-Handicapping
Protecting Self-Esteem
Self-Evaluation: Self-Enhancement and Self-Verification

