Network Structure and Core Features of Cognitive Emotion Regulation Strategies in Chinese Adolescents with NSSI

Little research has focused on identifying the dynamic relationship and core features of cognitive emotion regulation strategies (CERS) that critically contribute to the onset and maintenance of NSSI. This study aims to investigate the CERS network structure in Chinese adolescents with NSSI through network analysis, identifying the core strategies within this network.

A total of 2711 Chinese adolescents (50.5% female, mean age = 12.89 ± 0.73 years) were assessed using the CERQ. Independent t-tests were conducted to compare CERS scores between adolescents with and without NSSI. Network analysis was performed to identify core CERS and to explore differences in the networks between the two groups.

A total of 1065 adolescents (39.28%) reported engaging in NSSI at least once within the past six months. Among adolescents with NSSI, catastrophizing (strength = 1.32, betweenness = 1.98, closeness = 0.45) and rumination (strength = 1.18, betweenness = 1.10, closeness = 2.02) emerged as the most central CERS. In contrast, among adolescents without NSSI, catastrophizing (strength = 1.79, betweenness = 1.00, closeness = 0.08), rumination (strength = 0.34, betweenness = 1.00, closeness = 1.02), and positive reappraisal (strength = 0.57, betweenness = 1.50, closeness = 1.50) were identified as central CERS. Significant differences in network structure, global strength, and centrality were observed between the two groups, reflecting distinct patterns of CERS.

NSSI is associated with tightly connected, rigid CERS networks. Targeted interventions should focus on reducing catastrophizing and enhancing positive reappraisal to disrupt these rigid cognitive emotion regulation patterns, ultimately mitigating the risk of NSSI.