Understanding the Dynamics of Self-discrepancy Formation of Self-injurious Adolescents: A Case Study of Self-injury

Abstract

How the self-discrepancy of self-injurious adolescents was formed is yet to be understood clearly. Several studies have clearly stated that self-discrepancy contributes to propel adolescents to injure themselves. This study attempted to understand the dynamics of self-discrepancy formation in the sample of late adolescents who self-injure. This study used a descriptive qualitative research method and case study approach to examine this phenomenon. Data were obtained from six participants, using an open-ended questionnaire, which asks about how self-discrepancy in the participants was formed. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify themes and subthemes that indicate how self-discrepancy was formed. The result showed that ten significant themes emerge in the self-discrepancy formation of self-injurious adolescents. Two factors contribute to form self-discrepancy among adolescents who self-injure: external dan internal. These factors are achieved from the familial and social interaction that are perceived negatively by the participants. Based on the results of this study, self-discrepancies in adolescent self-injurers should be considered when intervening in self-injurious adolescents.

Pathways Linking Parental Care and Control to Loneliness in Breast Cancer Patients with A History of Childhood Maltreatment: Exploring the Mediating Roles of Ambivalence Over Emotional Expression and Self-Discrepancy

“…Hence, parental bonding profoundly affects the development of self-concept dimensions (Hadi & Wicaksono, 2020). For example, there is a significant relationship between low care/overprotectiveness (as extreme parenting styles) and low self-concept clarity/low self-esteem in adulthood (Perry et al, 2008).…”

“…In addition, parental bonding and childhood maltreatment draw attention in the literature. Parent–child relationships have a significant impact on the development of self-concept dimensions, contributing to various outcomes later in life (Hadi & Wicaksono, 2020). Also, findings indicate that childhood maltreatment influences a person’s self-concept.…”

“…Overprotective parenting, marked by excessive control and sheltering, may hinder the development of a robust self-identity and autonomy, potentially leading to lower self-esteem and a less clear self-concept. Conversely, low care, characterized by emotional neglect and inadequate support, can leave individuals with emotional voids, contributing to self-concept issues (Hadi & Wicaksono, 2020). Such parenting styles experienced during childhood can also lay the foundation for the development of self-discrepancy later in life (Hadi & Wicaksono, 2020), which can, in turn, contribute to feelings of loneliness (Higgins, 1987).…”

“…Conversely, low care, characterized by emotional neglect and inadequate support, can leave individuals with emotional voids, contributing to self-concept issues (Hadi & Wicaksono, 2020). Such parenting styles experienced during childhood can also lay the foundation for the development of self-discrepancy later in life (Hadi & Wicaksono, 2020), which can, in turn, contribute to feelings of loneliness (Higgins, 1987).…”

“…In previous studies, insecure attachment styles were linked to a higher risk of the development of loneliness in individuals with insecure attachment from the general population (Bogaerts et al, 2006; Karababa, 2022). Also, AEE and self-discrepancy are known to be related to parental bonding and loneliness in direct and indirect ways (Hadi & Wicaksono, 2020; Marroquín, 2011). However, limited evidence exists on this topic as no prior study has specifically investigated the associations of parental bonding with AEE and self-discrepancy in the group of breast cancer patients with a history of childhood maltreatment.…”