An Examination of the Relationship Between Characteristics Associated with Self-Harm and Brain Function

Abstract

Researchers have identified characteristics in individuals associated with the likelihood ofengaging in self-harm. These characteristics have been linked to increased levels ofactivity within the left frontal lobe of the brain. The purpose of the current study was toinvestigate how characteristics associated with self-harm relate to brainactivation/deactivation within the frontal and parietal lobes and how this pattern differsbetween groups. Sixty-five male and female students completed assessments thatassessed functioning in four regions of the brain. The results indicated that theperformance between groups on the Line Bisection Test, which taps into right parietalfunctioning, was significant. However, a supplementary analysis did not indicatesignificance. There were no significant differences in performance between groups onother measures. The results may suggest a potential relationship between self-harm andspatial cognition that future researchers should continue to clarify.