Examining the role of interpersonal problems in nonsuicidal self-injury in adolescents and young adults

Interpersonal problems are implicated as a risk factor for engaging in suicide-related behavior (e.g., Perkins & Hartless, 2001; Prinstein et al., 2000) and associated with deficits in social problem solving among self-injuring individuals (Nock & Mendes, 2008). Perceived interpersonal problems among adolescents are also linked to decreased likelihood of using emotion regulation skills during times of stress, posing a risk for NSSI (Prinstein, 2008). As past research has mostly focused on exploring interpersonal problems as they relate to suicidal ideation and behavior, there is a need for further research exploring interpersonal problems in relation to NSSI thoughts and behaviors. Additionally, few studies have utilized Ecological Momentary Assessment (EMA) data to collect information more accurately in real-time as opposed to retrospective reporting. The current study explored the relationship between interpersonal problems and NSSI as well as the role of emotion dysregulation in this relationship using EMA reporting. Data was collected from 47 adolescents and young adults aged 15-21 who reported recent engagement in NSSI. Baseline measures included: the Inventory of Interpersonal Problems, Short Version (IIP-32; Barkham et al., 1996) and Difficulties with Emotion Regulation Scale (DERS; Gratz & Roemer, 2004). Over a two-week period, participants completed five prompted survey entries daily as well as self-initiated entries following NSSI behavior. Each entry assessed NSSI thoughts and behaviors and the functions of NSSI behavior at each entry. Results indicated baseline interpersonal problems predicted NSSI thoughts and NSSI behaviors. Interpersonal problems also predicted social reinforcement-motivated NSSI behaviors, and specifically social negative reinforcement-motivated NSSI. Contrary to hypotheses, emotion dysregulation did not moderate the relationship between baseline or EMA interpersonal problems and NSSI behavior. Explicating the association between interpersonal problems and NSSI as well as identifying social functions of NSSI can be helpful in determining what mechanisms to address in the treatment of adolescents and young adults.Psy.D.Includes bibliographical reference