Mental flexibility and problem solving in adult patients who present non-suicidal self-injury

Introduction Non-Suicidal Self-Injury (NSSI) is considered a dysfunctional way of dealing with problem situations. Objective This study aimed to investigate the problem solving capacity in adults with NSSI compared to controls. Methods Thirty-three patients who sought treatment for NSSI (NSSI group) were compared with 33 individuals without psychiatric disorder (control group). We also investigated Axis I disorders, executive functions and problem solving capacity. Results In both groups, the majority were women (77.25%) with a mean age of 30 years, and the beginning of NSSI behavior of 16 years. The most common NSSI behaviour was skin cutting, and the most common reason given for engaging in that behaviour was “to stop negative feelings”. The most common psychiatric comorbidities were major depressive disorder (60.6%). Compared to controls, the group with NSSI showed lower results in relation to problem solving capacity ( P  = 0.000) and mental flexibility ( P  = 0.007). Deficits in problem solving capacity may be a reflection of low mental flexibility of adults with NSSI. This may be a risk factor for the beginning of NSSI and the persistence of it in adulthood. Conclusion Early identification and treatment focused on problem solving capacity during the adolescence may prevent the chronicity of NSSI.