Autonomic Nervous System Function in Nonsuicidal Self-Injury—A Research Domain Criteria Perspective on the Arousal/Regulatory Systems

Abstract

Abstract This chapter addresses autonomic nervous system (ANS) function in nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) from the perspective of the Research Domain Criteria (RDoC). Based on the RDoC framework, the ANS, as a major stress-regulatory system in humans, is primarily considered to be implicated in the domain of arousal/regulatory systems, while it shows associations also to other domains. Drawing on recent theoretical models providing a framework for understanding the neurobiology of NSSI, it is suggested that NSSI may result from failures in physiological and socioemotional stress regulation. In the present chapter, after introducing ANS function under the RDoC framework and outlining a potential rationale for an involvement of the ANS in NSSI, central mechanisms and concepts will be presented that help to understand how ANS function in NSSI is typically considered in the context of psychophysiological research studies. Further, an overview of indices that are frequently derived in the lab to quantify ANS function is provided. The chapter then reviews existing research studies where the respective indices have been measured to study the involvement of ANS function in NSSI from different temporal angles (i.e., ANS function under resting state, in response to stress, as well as considering its diurnal rhythmicity). On the basis of the evidence reviewed, the chapter discusses the current state of the research field and concludes with a short summary and outlook highlighting avenues for future NSSI research.