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Faculty of Graduate Studies

Geneva Mason

  • BA (Queen’s University, 2020)
Notice of the Final Oral Examination for the Degree of Master of Science

Topic

Non-suicidal Self-injury Functions and Maintenance: The Role of Intermittent Reinforcement

Department of Psychology

Date & location

  • Thursday, August 6, 2026
  • 10:00 A.M.
  • Virtual Defence

Examining Committee

Supervisory Committee

  • Dr. Brianna Turner, Department of Psychology, University of Victoria (Supervisor)
  • Dr. Jonathan Rush, Department of Psychology, UVic (Member)

External Examiner

  • Dr. David Klonsky, Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia

Chair of Oral Examination

  • Dr. Christine Ou, School of Nursing, UVic

Abstract

Individuals engage in non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) for several reasons. Functional theories of why NSSI occurs suggest that NSSI is maintained by intrapersonal (e.g., providing affective benefits) and interpersonal (e.g., facilitating social support) reinforcement (Nock, 2009; Nock & Prinstein, 2004). Despite being extensively explored, prior research on NSSI functions has not considered whether different patterns of reinforcement are associated with NSSI frequency across longer follow-up periods – in other words, whether the reinforcing consequences of NSSI actually maintain this behaviour over the long-term. In particular, individuals who do not consistently experience the benefits of NSSI (i.e., intermittent reinforcement) may be more likely to engage in NSSI more frequently. The present study uses an archival dataset with multiple assessment formats (i.e., baseline self-report/interview, ecological momentary assessment [EMA], three- and six-month follow-ups) to investigate whether variability in the momentary social and emotional experiences surrounding NSSI predict NSSI frequency over lengthier periods. The primary sample included 152 young adults (Mage = 22.29, SD = 3.18, 86.81% [131] female) who completed a baseline assessment of their NSSI history followed by a three-week EMA period. Negative affect, arousal, and interpersonal needs increased in the hours before NSSI and decreased afterwards. Change in interpersonal needs varied within individuals across NSSI episodes and the extent of variability in affect and interpersonal needs differed between people. Reinforcement patterns were not significantly associated with NSSI frequency during the follow-up period. Ultimately, these findings might facilitate the identification of individuals at risk for imminent NSSI and guide the delivery of psychosocial interventions in daily life.

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