Exploring the cessation process from adolescence to young adulthood in individuals with lived experience of nonsuicidal self‐injury: a qualitative study
2025

Understanding Why Young Adults Stop Self-Injuring

Sample size: 21 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): H. Andersson, L. Korhonen, K. Holmqvist Larsson, B. M. Gustafsson, M. Zetterqvist

Primary Institution: Linköping University

Hypothesis

What factors contribute to the cessation of nonsuicidal self-injury in young adults?

Conclusion

The study highlights that personal growth, improved relationships, and changes in life context are key factors in the cessation of nonsuicidal self-injury.

Supporting Evidence

  • Participants reported that improved well-being was crucial for stopping self-injury.
  • Positive changes in close relationships were seen as motivators for cessation.
  • Changes in life context provided opportunities for personal growth and reduced the need for self-injury.

Takeaway

This study looked at why some young adults stop hurting themselves. They found that feeling better inside, having good friends, and being in a better place in life helped them stop.

Methodology

Qualitative interviews were conducted with 21 young adults who had ceased nonsuicidal self-injury, focusing on their experiences and perceptions.

Potential Biases

Participants' perceptions may have been influenced by their treatment experiences and the stigma associated with nonsuicidal self-injury.

Limitations

The study's findings may not be generalizable as all participants were assigned female sex at birth and had received treatment in a medical context.

Participant Demographics

All participants were assigned female sex at birth, aged 20-22 years, with varying occupational statuses and mental health backgrounds.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1002/jad.12417

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication