Detailed contribution information
| Contribution title | Dissociation as a Barrier: Moderating the Protective Role of Emotional Competence in NSSI |
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| Contribution code | D1.076 |
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| Form of presentation | Poster |
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| Abstract |
Aim: Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) is a maladaptive coping mechanism often linked to emotional dysregulation. Emotional competence—the ability to identify, understand, and regulate emotions—is a recognized protective factor against NSSI. However, dissociation, a psychological process characterized by a disconnection from thoughts, emotions, and surroundings, may undermine this protective effect. This study investigates the moderating role of dissociation in the relationship between emotional competence and NSSI. We hypothesized that higher levels of dissociation would weaken the protective impact of emotional competence, thereby increasing the frequency of NSSI. Methods: Using a cross-sectional design, data were collected from 95 adolescents (M = 16.30), 47 of whom met DSM-5 criteria for NSSI. Participants completed standardized measures assessing emotional competence, dissociation, and NSSI frequency. Results and Conclusions: Moderator analysis revealed that dissociation significantly influenced the relationship between emotional competence and NSSI frequency. Specifically, at low levels of dissociation, higher emotional competence was strongly associated with reduced NSSI frequency. However, this protective effect diminished as dissociation levels increased, with emotional competence offering minimal protection against NSSI among individuals reporting high dissociation. These findings highlight the complexity of NSSI risk factors and emphasize dissociation as a critical barrier to the benefits of emotional competence. Interventions aimed at reducing NSSI should address dissociative tendencies in tandem with enhancing emotional regulation skills to maximize effectiveness. |