This study examined the roles of emotion dysregulation and non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) expectations and beliefs in the relationship between internalized shame and NSSI. A self-report survey was conducted online targeting adults aged 19 and over re...
This study examined the roles of emotion dysregulation and non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) expectations and beliefs in the relationship between internalized shame and NSSI. A self-report survey was conducted online targeting adults aged 19 and over residing in South Korea. The valid sample size was 295 participants. The measurement tools used were the Internalized Shame Scale (ISS), the Korean version of the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale (K-DERS), the Non-Suicidal Self-Injury Expectancy Questionnaire (NEQ), the Non-Suicidal Self-Injury Beliefs Scale (NSIBS), and the Inventory of Statements About Self-Injury (ISAS). The results of the study are as follows. First, there were positive correlations between internalized shame, emotion dysregulation, NSSI expectations and beliefs, and NSSI. Second, in the relationship between internalized shame and NSSI, emotion dysregulation showed a single mediating effect, while NSSI expectations and beliefs did not show a single mediating effect. Third, in the relationship between internalized shame and NSSI, there was a sequential mediating effect of emotion dysregulation and NSSI expectations and beliefs. NSSI expectations fully mediated the relationship, whereas NSSI beliefs partially mediated the relationship. Fourth, in the relationship between internalized shame, emotion dysregulation, and NSSI, partial mediating effects were found for NSSI expectations regarding emotion regulation, communication, and pain. Partial mediating effects were also found for NSSI beliefs regarding anti-dissociation, suicide prevention, self-punishment, interpersonal influence, and escape. This study is significant in that it clearly elucidated how emotion dysregulation and individual cognitions about self-injury affect the process by which individuals with internalized shame engage in NSSI behavior. Based on these findings, subsequent interventions were discussed.