title: Interactive Family Dynamics and Non-suicidal Self-Injury in Psychiatric Adolescent Patients: A Single Case Study.
abstract: Non-Suicidal Self-Injury (NSSI) is a common, multifaceted phenomenon among adolescents. Recent researchers have shown that a number of psychological and psychiatric correlates are implicated in the onset/repetition of NSSI, but those previous studies did not directly observe the family interaction patterns of this clinical population. In this paper, the quality of family interactions was observed using the Lausanne Trilogue Play procedure to deepen the specific interactive dimensions associated with NSSI in adolescents. The results of a single case study showed a lack of positive emotional exchanges, a parenting style expressing hostility, a high level of control and difficulties in triangulation. Through this method, the authors show that a better understanding of the role of family interactions is crucial and could improve the assessment and treatment of Non-Suicidal Self-Injurious behaviors. Research and clinical implications are discussed.
authors.affiliation: Childhood Adolescence Family Unit, ULSS 16 - University of PaduaPadua, Italy; Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of PaduaPadua, Italy.
authors.forename: Michela
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Gatta
authors.affiliation: Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of PaduaPadua, Italy; Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, University of PaduaPadua, Italy.
authors.forename: Marina
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Miscioscia
authors.affiliation: Childhood Adolescence Family Unit, ULSS 16 - University of Padua Padua, Italy.
authors.forename: Marta
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Sisti
authors.affiliation: Childhood Adolescence Family Unit, ULSS 16 - University of Padua Padua, Italy.
authors.forename: Ilaria
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: Comis
authors.affiliation: Childhood Adolescence Family Unit, ULSS 16 - University of PaduaPadua, Italy; Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of PaduaPadua, Italy.
authors.forename: Pier Antonio
authors.initials: PA
authors.lastname: Battistella
keywords: Lausanne Trilogue Play; adolescence; family functioning; family interactions; non-suicidal self-injury