Understanding Nonsuicidal Self-Injury in Adults Based on the Benefits and Barriers Model: Comparing Suicidal Self-Injury and Exploring Functional Differences across Frequency Levels

Background: This study aimed to examine differences in nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) depending on the presence of suicidal self-injury, such as suicidal ideation or suicide attempts. It also explored patterns of change in self-harm motivation during the initiation and maintenance of NSSI, based on the Benefits and Barriers Model of NSSI.Methods: A total of 300 adults completed the Self-Injurious Thoughts and Behaviors Interview, Inventory of Statements about Self-Injury, Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale, Trait Meta-Mood Scale, Depressive Experiences Questionnaire, Capability for Suicide Questionnaire, and the Interpersonal Needs Questionnaire. Group differences were analyzed.Results: Individuals in the NSSI with suicide attempt group showed significantly higher motivations related to affect regulation, self-punishment, communication, and interpersonal needs. In contrast, the NSSI-only group exhibited significantly lower levels of emotion dysregulation, interpersonal needs, and self-criticism. Additionally, compared to the middle- and high-frequency NSSI groups, the low-frequency group reported stronger motivations related to peer bonding, interpersonal influence, and the toughness function.Conclusions: These findings suggest that the Benefits and Barriers Model of NSSI is useful for understanding the relationship between nonsuicidal and suicidal self-injury, as well as the motivational processes involved in the maintenance of NSSI.