An exploratory study of deliberate self-harm in a South African student population

This cross-sectional study aimed to generate an exploratory functional model of deliberate self-harm (DSH) occurring among a South African student population (n = 603) using Principle Component Analysis (PCA). A battery of instruments, including the Deliberate Self-Harm Inventory (DSHI) and the Functional Assessment of Self-Mutilation (FASM) were administered to students. Following Nock and Prinstein’s (2004) four-factor model on the functions of DSH, self-reported reasons for DSH on the FASM were conceptualised in light of the reinforcement mechanisms of social learning theory. PCA revealed a four-factor model for the reasons students engaged in DSH, constituent of the following components: social positive reinforcement, social negative reinforcement, automatic reinforcement, and reinforcement regarding self-image. A unique factor manifests in the self-image reinforcement component, suggesting divergence in the functions of DSH between student and adolescent populations.

Grantor dc:publisher

University of Pretoria

Year dc:date.issued

2013

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Maree, David J.F.

• Exploration
• Deliberate self-harm
• Students
• Principle component analysis
• Functional Assessment of Self-Mutilation
• Factor
• Social learning theory
• General population
• Deliberate self-harm inventory
• Survey
• UCTD

Statement dc:rights

• © 2013 University of Pretoria. All rights reserved. The copyright in this work vests in the University of Pretoria. No part of this work may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, without the prior written permission of the University of Pretoria.

Language dc:language.iso

en

Dc Identifier Other

F13/9/1088/gm

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:repository.up.ac.za:2263/36736