Ecological Momentary Assessment and Intervention in Nonsuicidal Self-Injury: A Novel Approach to Treatment

Abstract

This study provides an introduction to ecological momentary assessment (EMA) methods and the potential use of ecological momentary intervention (EMI) for nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI). The novel use of EMA and EMI are discussed within the context of the emotion regulation function of NSSI, the ability of these approaches to complement established treatments (i.e., cognitive behavior therapy & dialectical behavior therapy), and the specific areas in which an EMI treatment approach can augment traditional treatment. Based on established EMA findings in general and specific applications of EMA to the NSSI, a model EMI for NSSI is proposed.