Understanding emotional dysregulation in self-harm behaviors

Emotional Dysregulation in Para-suicidal Behavior: Effects of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy on Emotional Processing, a Triangulation Approach

Not applicable Interventional Haukeland University Hospital · NCT03846375

This study is testing if Dialectical Behavior Therapy can help people who self-harm by improving their emotional control and reducing the frequency and intensity of their self-injury.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment60 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 65 Years
SexAll
SponsorHaukeland University Hospital Academic / other
Locations1 site (Bergen)
Trial IDNCT03846375 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates how emotional processing changes during Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for individuals with non-suicidal self-injury and suicidal ideation. It aims to assess the relationship between emotion regulation difficulties and the frequency and intensity of self-harming behaviors. Participants will undergo pre- and post-intervention assessments, including self-report measures and psychophysiological evaluations, to determine the effectiveness of DBT in improving emotional regulation and reducing self-harm. The study will also control for common co-morbidities such as anxiety and depression.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals experiencing non-suicidal self-injury and/or suicidal ideation who are undergoing outpatient DBT treatment.

Not a fit: Patients with severe psychiatric illnesses, neurological conditions, or cardiac conditions may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance treatment strategies for individuals struggling with self-harm and suicidal thoughts by improving emotional regulation skills.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that DBT is effective in reducing suicidality and improving emotional regulation, indicating a promising approach in this area.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria Patients:

* Patients with non-suicidal self-injury and/or suicidal ideation that undergo standard clinical outpatient DBT treatment will be recruited.

Exclusion Criteria Patients:

* Lack of informed consent

Exclusion Criteria Healthy Controls:

* Lack of informed consent
* former or current neurological conditions
* severe psychiatric illness
* cardiac conditions.

Where this trial is running

Bergen

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Self HarmSuicide, AttemptedEmotional InstabilityBorderline Personality DisorderEmotional DysregulationEmotional regulationDialectical Behavioral Therapypara-suicidal behavior
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.