| Recovery Experiences of Female Participants with Non-Suicidal Self-Injury and Their Mothers: A Narrative Inquiry |
Hye Rin Oh1 
, Eun Jin Lee2
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1Master’s Student, School of Nursing, Inha University, Incheon, Korea
2Professor, School of Nursing, Inha University, Incheon, Korea |
Correspondence:
Eun Jin Lee, Tel: +82-32-860-8214, Fax: +82-32-874-5880,
Email: peace-peace@hanmail.net
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Received: 8 April 2025 • Revised: 28 May 2025 • Accepted: 10 June 2025 |
| Abstract |
Purpose
This study aimed to explore recovery experiences of mother-daughter dyads following non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI), focusing on influence of maternal behaviors on the recovery process.
Methods
A narrative inquiry was conducted using the three-dimensional narrative framework-temporality, sociality, and place. Two dyads, each comprising a woman with a history of NSSI and her mother, were recruited through purposive sampling. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and analyzed via narrative configuration.
Results
Maternal behaviors played a critical role in daughters’ recovery. Key maternal behaviors such as emotional caregiving, verbal acknowledgment of past parenting shortcomings, and participation in counseling played a decisive role in restoring relational trust and facilitating emotional regulation. In contrast, early responses involving emotional invalidation and excessive behavioral control impeded progress. A turning point was observed when mothers shifted from control-based parenting to emotionally attuned support.
Conclusion
Findings of this study emphasize the importance of reflective parenting and relational responsiveness in NSSI recovery. This study offers practical implications for designing family-centered interventions that address both emotional and relational needs of individuals with a history of NSSI in clinical and community mental health settings. |
| Key Words:
Self-injurious behavior; Mother-child relations; Qualitative research; Mental health recovery; Family therapy |
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