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Tue 13 Oct 2026 · USMLE Step 1

Question of the Day: Behavioral Psychology

A 16-year-old girl presents to the clinic with multiple superficial cuts on her forearms. She reports feeling 'numb' or 'empty' and states that cutting helps her 'feel real' again. She denies any suicidal intent. How is this behavior best understood?

  • A. Attention-seeking behavior 0% chose this
  • B. Psychotic behavior 0% chose this
  • C. Affect regulation through self-injury Correct answer 100% chose this
  • D. Suicide attempt 0% chose this
  • E. Accidental injury 0% chose this

1 answer so far.

Correct answer: C. Affect regulation through self-injury

CORRECT ANSWER: C -- The behavior is a form of affect regulation through self-injury, serving to manage emotional states rather than suicidal intent. WHY WRONG: - A: While it may appear attention-seeking, NSSI primarily serves internal emotional regulation.

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