Understanding the extent in which NSSI and ODI-type behaviour are ways of dealing with the same issues for young people in New Zealand

Abstract

NSSI and some forms of aggression are behaviours that appear to have similar functions and risk factors. There is a gap in the research in understanding the extent of how these behaviours crossover and are ways of dealing with the same issues. 10 semi-structure in-depth interviews were conducted to understand ways of dealing with negative emotions and if this differed with engagement in NSSI or ODI-type behaviours. Overall this research found that while they were ways of dealing with the same issues, the individuals experience of emotion, interpersonal relationships and situational factors determined the extent of what behaviour they engaged in.