Citation

Hamza CA, Willoughby T. J. Clin. Psychol. (Hoboken) 2015; 71(6): 561-574.

Affiliation

Brock University.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2015, John Wiley and Sons)

DOI

10.1002/jclp.22174

PMID

25850819

Abstract

CONTEXT: Although research indicates that nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) may be used as a form of emotion regulation, studies have largely relied on the use of retrospective self-report data, which limits inferences about directionality of effects. Recently, researchers have started to employ lab-based experimental (e.g., guided imagery, acute pain) and moment sampling approaches to the study of NSSI.

METHODS: In the present study, we conducted a review of this recent literature, using several electronic databases (e.g., PsychINFO, ERIC, CINAHL).

RESULTS: We identified 18 studies that met our inclusion criteria.

FINDINGS indicated that the administration of pain was associated with decreases in negative affect among both self-injurers and noninjurers, although these declines were more pronounced for self-injurers in some studies.

CONCLUSIONS: We discuss findings within the context of two central theories (i.e., opponent-process theory and distraction theory) and offer several recommendations for future research in this area.

Language: en