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Contra-Hedonic Functions of Self-Destructive Behaviors in Adolescents
Frances Grace Hart1, Sharina Hamm1, Leily M Behbehani1
1Department of Psychology, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA.
The International Journal of Eating Disorders
|April 20, 2026
Summary
Adolescents frequently use eating disorder (ED) behaviors and nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) for contra-hedonic purposes, aiming to feel worse, not just better. This highlights a key factor in understanding and treating these harmful behaviors.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Adolescent Psychiatry
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Self-destructive behaviors like eating disorder (ED) behaviors and nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) are often linked to emotion regulation.
- Previous research assumed these behaviors primarily serve a pro-hedonic function (reducing negative affect).
- Contra-hedonic motivations (increasing negative affect or decreasing positive affect) are common in adolescence and may reinforce these behaviors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence, frequency, and clinical characteristics of contra-hedonic functions in adolescent ED behaviors and NSSI.
- To explore the role of contra-hedonic motivations in self-destructive behaviors.
Main Methods:
- A transdiagnostic sample of 137 adolescents was recruited online.
- Participants completed surveys assessing the frequency, severity, and hedonic functions (pro- and contra-) of ED behaviors and NSSI.
- The sample was predominantly female (75.18%) and White (75.91%), with a mean age of 15.10 years.
Main Results:
- 81% of adolescents reported at least one contra-hedonic function for ED behaviors and/or NSSI.
- Contra-hedonic motivations were more prevalent for NSSI than for ED behaviors.
- A desire for self-punishment was consistently associated with contra-hedonic motivations.
Conclusions:
- Adolescents may engage in ED behaviors and NSSI not only to feel better but also to intentionally feel worse.
- Understanding both pro- and contra-hedonic functions is crucial for developing targeted behavioral interventions.
- Further research into these functions can refine treatment strategies for maladaptive behaviors in adolescents.
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