Relationship Between Cognitive Distortion and Life Event with NSSI Thought on Secondary School Students

Abstract

Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) is a form of self-injurious behaviours with no intention of committing suicide. These behaviours are seen to be increasingly evidenced among secondary school students, which can affect their lives. This study aims to look at the relationship between cognitive distortion, life events and NSSI thoughts of secondary school students.  This study uses survey method by administration a set of questionnaires. The respondents (n=1021) were recruited from secondary schools in the Klang Valley using random sampling. The findings of the study indicate that there is a significant positive relationship between cognitive distortion and life events with students' NSSI thoughts. Students think of injuring themselves without the intention of committing suicide due to negative life events and their distorted thinking. The results of this study have implications increasing mental health awareness and preventive measures on NSSI behaviours.  The preventive measures should address issues related to life events and cognitive distortion of students in order to prevent the occurrence of NSSI behaviours among secondary school students.