From Senses to Emotions: Linking Sensory Profiles and Anxiety to Emotion Regulation Challenges in Adolescents with Non-Suicidal Self-Injury

Abstract

Objective: Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) is highly prevalent among adolescents, with emotion regulation difficulties recognized as a central feature of this behavior. However, the contribution of sensory processing characteristics—particularly when considered alongside the temporal dimensions of anxiety—remains insufficiently understood. This study aimed to explore the associations between sensory profiles, anxiety, and emotion regulation in adolescents engaging in NSSI. Methods: The sample comprised 50 adolescents aged 11–17 years (M = 14.70, SD = 1.52), all of whom completed the Adolescent Sensory Profile (ASP), Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale (DERS), and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI). Results: Findings indicated that participants exhibited elevated scores in the sensory sensitivity, low registration, and sensory avoidance quadrants of the ASP. Importantly, regression analysis showed that both low registration (β = 0.94, p < .001) and trait anxiety (β = 0.57, p = .038) showed significant positive associations with emotion regulation difficulties. Conclusion: These findings underscore the unique difficulties in the sensory profile and suggest the critical role of bottom-up sensory processing patterns in underlying emotion regulation difficulties in adolescents with NSSI. Addressing sensory issues in therapeutic settings may improve emotional dysregulation and reduce self-injurious behaviors in adolescents with NSSI.