Nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) functions moderate the relationship between NSSI-specific cognitions and NSSI maintenance

Specific cognitions and functions are among the primary factors that influence the maintenance of nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI). However, the interaction between NSSI-specific cognitions and functions remains unclear. This study aimed to reveal the moderating effect of NSSI functions on the relationship between NSSI-specific cognitions and the maintenance of NSSI. Cross-sectional data available for analyses were obtained from 912 emerging adults. Participants completed self-reported measures of NSSI history, NSSI-specific cognitions, and its functions. We assessed models’ ability to predict 1) the presence of past and recent NSSI, 2) the maintenance of NSSI. 1) A multinomial logistic regression analysis revealed that several factors of NSSI-specific cognition were associated with greater odds of the presence of past and recent NSSI. 2) A binary logistic regression analysis revealed that the interactions between NSSI-specific cognitions and functions were significant. When high intrapersonal function was endorsed, higher obsession with self-injury and lower perceived usefulness of self-injury were associated with greater odds of NSSI maintenance. NSSI-specific cognitions significantly influenced the past and recent NSSI; meanwhile, its influence on the maintenance of NSSI was moderated by function. If individuals endorse its high intrapersonal function, support to enhance understanding of the usefulness of one’s self-injury and reduce obsession with self-injury may be effective toward ceasing NSSI.