Investigating Self-Criticism as a Transdiagnostic Predictor of Self-Harm Behaviors

Abstract

Direct and indirect self-harm behaviors frequently co-occur, suggesting possible common factors in their etiology. Theoretical models of two such behaviors, nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) and disordered eating (DE), implicate self-criticism (SC) as one such transdiagnostic process in both onset and maintenance of these acts. Empirical tests of such models are lacking, however. In particular, examinations of the relation of NSSI with specific DE behaviors (versus DE-related attitudes and cognitions) are rare. This dissertation consists of three studies investigating the role of SC in NSSI and DE behaviors. Studies 1 and 2 examined global (i.e., trait-like) SC as a longitudinal predictor of NSSI and DE in an undergraduate (Study 1) and high-risk (Study 2) sample. Life stress as a moderator of this relation was also tested. Study 3 examined the relation of NSSI and DE to SC experienced in response to negative mood induction (i.e., reactive SC). Findings yielded consistent support for global SC as a predictor of specific DE behaviors; evidence for global SC as a predictor of NSSI was mixed across Studies 1 and 2. Findings did not support an association of reactive SC with either NSSI or DE. Research and clinical implications are discussed.