Citation

Horgan M, Martin G. Arch. Suicide Res. 2015; 20(2): 142-152.

Affiliation

The University of Queensland , Australia.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2015, International Academy of Suicide Research, Publisher Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/13811118.2015.1004479

PMID

25764153

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: This research sought to clarify how some self-injurers cease the behaviour, maintaining this for at least one year. Using the Experiential Avoidance Model (EAM), we examined whether characteristics of self-injurers remain in people who have successfully ceased self-injury and what, by implication, might be targeted to improve therapeutic efficacy.

METHOD: An online cross-sectional survey of 215 1st year university students.

RESULTS: Past self-injurers (34) scored significantly better on subscales of the General Health Questionnaire, as well as Distress Tolerance, Experiential Avoidance and Self-blame compared to Current self-injurers (29) Conclusion: The Experiential Avoidance Model is a useful basis for understanding self-injury, and informing therapeutic approaches. Reducing Anxiety, and developing Tolerance and Positive Emotional Intensity may be keys to ceasing self-injury.

Language: en