A feasibility study of the transdiagnostic self-injury interview

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Clinical Psychology
• Mental Health Assessment

Background:

• Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) is a complex behavior requiring accurate assessment tools.
• The Transdiagnostic Self-injury Interview (TSI) is a novel measure designed to evaluate NSSI characteristics.
• Validation of the TSI is crucial for its effective clinical and research application.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility of conducting a validation study for the TSI.
• To investigate the criterion validity of the TSI against established measures.
• To examine clinical correlates and interrater reliability of the TSI.

Main Methods:

• The study involved 50 participants in psychiatric settings.
• Feasibility was assessed by participant completion rates, interview duration, and symptom exacerbation.
• Criterion validity was measured against the Deliberate Self-Harm Inventory (DSHI).
• Clinical correlates were examined using the Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS) and other scales.
• Interrater reliability was assessed using video recordings and written transcripts.

Main Results:

• The TSI demonstrated feasibility, with an average completion time of 9.3 minutes.
• A strong correlation was found between TSI and DSHI (r=0.94, p<0.001), supporting criterion validity.
• TSI showed significant correlations with C-SSRS ideation measures but not suicidal attempts.
• Interrater reliabilities were statistically significant, indicating consistent scoring.

Conclusions:

• The findings support the feasibility of a TSI validation study.
• The TSI shows promising criterion validity and interrater reliability for assessing NSSI.
• Further validation across diverse settings and diagnoses is recommended.