Trauma Symptoms, Self-Compassion and Self Forgiveness among Individuals Engaged in Non-Suicidal Self Injury: A Multiple Case Study

Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) is a growing concern among adolescents and young adults, yet limited research has examined how trauma-related distress is expressed and how self-compassion and self-forgiveness are experienced in this population within Filipino contexts. This multiple case study explored these experiences among four Filipino young adult females (aged 19–22) with a history of NSSI. Using Yin’s (2018) multiple case study approach, data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed through thematic analysis with within-case and cross-case synthesis. Three cross-case themes emerged: (1) trauma symptoms expressed as psychological distress characterized by negative self-attitudes across affective, behavioral, and cognitive domains; (2) self-compassion as personal coping strategies combining adaptive practices (e.g., cognitive reframing, support-seeking, exercise, faith, journaling) and maladaptive patterns (e.g., self-doubt, diminished self-worth); and (3) self-forgiveness as personal responses to NSSI, ranging from denial and perceived unworthiness of forgiveness to acceptance, gratitude, and forgiveness of self and others. Family support, faith, and social connectedness emerged as protective influences. Findings indicate that experiences of distress, self-compassion, and self-forgiveness are developmentally and contextually shaped, underscoring the need for culturally attentive, personalized support. Based on the themes, an evidence-informed, culturally responsive intervention plan is proposed to address trauma-related distress, strengthen self-compassion skills, and support self-forgiveness processes among individuals engaged in NSSI.