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Uncovering the Mystery of Non-Suicidal Self-Injury Among Selected Filipino Adolescents: A Grounded Theory Approach

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Abstract

A growing number of adolescents who engage in non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) have been reported worldwide. Despite numerous investigations about NSSI, this self-harming behavioral process mostly found among adolescents has not been examined much in non-western countries like the Philippines. This grounded theory study purports to investigate and understand the dynamic process of deliberate self-harm among 20 Filipino adolescents performing non-suicidal self-injury. Field texts were analyzed using repertory grid and with-in and cross-case analysis. Thick description of data and saturation, prolonged engagement, member checking technique, triangulation, theoretical sampling, bracketing, peer debriefers, self-reflective journals, and audit trails were likewise employed to ensure trustworthiness of findings. Results of the individual interviews conducted were able to explain the phenomenon and a four-phased process surfaced to characterize non-suicidal self-injury. The R.I.S.E. of the Phoenix illustrates how Filipino adolescents experience engaging with non-suicidal self-injury in four phases: (1) ruining, (2) impassing, (3) separating, and (4) emerging. Considering this process may equip psychological health personnel with the knowledge on relevant interventions in providing comprehensive support to Filipino adolescent self-harmers.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. The Graduate School, University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines

    Louziela P. Masana, Marc Eric S. Reyes & Clarissa F. Delariarte

  2. College of Science, University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines

    Marc Eric S. Reyes

  3. Cavite State University-General Trias City Campus, Cavite, Philippines

    Louziela P. Masana

  4. Far Eastern University, Manila, Philippines

    Clarissa F. Delariarte

  5. De La Salle University, Manila, Philippines

    Clarissa F. Delariarte

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  1. Louziela P. Masana
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Correspondence to Louziela P. Masana.

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Masana, L.P., Reyes, M.E.S. & Delariarte, C.F. Uncovering the Mystery of Non-Suicidal Self-Injury Among Selected Filipino Adolescents: A Grounded Theory Approach. Psychol Stud 66, 117–128 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12646-021-00619-6

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