Research: Harmful coping methods prevalent among adolescents who self-injure
Adolescents who have a hard time regulating their emotions often exhibit disruptive behaviors, but those who self-harm are more likely to engage in these behaviors to deal with their emotional pain.
According to a new study out of the University of Georgia, adolescents with a history of nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) use negative coping methods, like acting out and focusing on their negative emotions, more than those with no history of NSSI.
“If an adolescent is experiencing extreme psychological distress, they may turn to NSSI as a way of regulating their emotions, to change how they feel by stopping bad feelings or finding relief,” said Amanda Giordano, lead author of the study and an associate professor in the Department of Counseling and Human Development Services. “For youth who engage in NSSI, the act is often their best attempt to cope with overwhelming psychological pain.”