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Research Paper | Psychology | Volume 15 Issue 1, January 2026 | Pages: 1065 - 1074 | India
Exploring the Dimensions of Non-Suicidal Self Injury Amongst Young Adults
Abstract: Amidst a global surge in deleterious physical and mental health conditions following the onset of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), there has been a noteworthy escalation in self-injurious conduct, particularly among adolescents and young adults. This occurrence has propelled the recurring prominence of Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI), denoting the purposeful infliction of harm upon one's own body devoid of an intent to cause fatality. Regrettably, despite the prevalence and recurrence of such behaviors, empirical evidence remains insufficient to identify and elucidate this phenomenon comprehensively. Existing literature on NSSI has largely constrained its scope to a mere symptom of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), attributing it to environmental or biological determinants. The present research extends beyond this paradigm by examining NSSI independently of its association with BPD. Moreover, this investigation endeavors to discern and explore the cultural determinants influencing NSSI. Two recurrent factors, heretofore overlooked in NSSI research, pertain to its precipitating and perpetuating elements. Consequently, this study is concentrated on delineating these factors to gain a holistic and profound comprehension. An interpretative phenomenological approach was employed to achieve a comprehensive understanding, involving semi-structured interviews and an Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) for qualitative results. The findings underscore a significant influence of culture on the NSSI experiences of the participants. Cultural factors, specifically traditional influences and cultural sanctions exerted a pronounced impact on NSSI behaviors. Furthermore, precipitating factors, encompassing interpersonal concerns, maladaptive emotions, temperament, and a distorted self-concept, were identified as robust determinants of NSSI behavior. Perpetuating factors involving impulsivity, maladaptive cognitions, and dysfunctional emotions elucidated the repetitive nature of NSSI.
Keywords: Non-suicidal self-injury, cultural factors, precipitating factors, perpetuating factors
How to Cite?: Sandra Sajeev, Pallavi Radhakrishnan, "Exploring the Dimensions of Non-Suicidal Self Injury Amongst Young Adults", Volume 15 Issue 1, January 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1065-1074, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR26117191834, DOI: https://dx.dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR26117191834