Interconnectivity among different nonsuicidal self-injurious methods - a network analysis.

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Clinical Psychology
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Nonsuicidal self-injurious (NSSI) behaviors are a significant indicator of self-harm severity.
• Limited research exists on the interrelationships between diverse NSSI methods (e.g., cutting, biting, burning).
• Variable-centered network analysis offers a novel approach to understanding NSSI patterns, identifying central behaviors and their associations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the interconnections between 12 different self-harm methods using network analysis.
• To identify central NSSI behaviors and their co-occurrence patterns within a community adult sample.

Main Methods:

• Network analysis was employed to examine the relationships between 12 distinct self-harm methods.
• The Inventory of Statements About Self-Injury was used to collect data on NSSI types and frequency in adults.

Main Results:

• 39.7% of 1873 adults reported lifetime NSSI; 77% used multiple NSSI methods.
• Frequently used methods included hitting self, interfering with wound healing, pinching, biting, and severe scratching.
• Severe scratching, cutting, and pinching showed the highest interrelationship with other NSSI behaviors, indicating greater versatility.

Conclusions:

• Certain NSSI methods are more central and interconnected, suggesting they may indicate greater self-harm severity.
• Identifying these central behaviors is vital for clinical assessment and treatment planning.
• Mapping person-specific NSSI methods can enhance risk assessment and inform therapeutic interventions.