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The psychophysiology of self-mutilation
J Haines1, C L Williams, K L Brain
1Department of Psychology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia.
Journal of Abnormal Psychology
|August 1, 1995
Summary
Self-mutilative behavior may be reinforced by its tension-reducing qualities. Psychophysiological and subjective responses decreased during self-mutilation imagery, suggesting a unique coping mechanism for self-harm.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Psychophysiology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Self-mutilation is a complex behavior often linked to emotional regulation.
- Understanding the psychophysiological underpinnings of self-harm is crucial for effective interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the psychophysiological and subjective responses of individuals during imagined self-mutilative acts.
- To compare responses between self-mutilation groups and control groups.
Main Methods:
- Utilized imagery scripts depicting self-mutilative acts and control events (neutral, accidental injury, aggression).
- Measured psychophysiological (e.g., arousal) and subjective responses across four stages: scene setting, approach, incident, and consequence.
- Compared responses across prisoner, prisoner control, and non-prisoner control groups.
Main Results:
- A decrease in psychophysiological and subjective responses was observed during self-mutilation imagery in self-mutilators.
- Non-mutilators did not exhibit this response decrease when presented with self-mutilation imagery.
- A temporal lag was noted between psychophysiological and psychological responses to the self-harm act.
- Responses to self-mutilation imagery differed significantly from control imagery.
Conclusions:
- Self-mutilative behavior appears to be maintained by its reinforcing, tension-reducing properties.
- The findings suggest self-harm may serve as a maladaptive coping mechanism for intense emotional distress.