Understanding of parent/caregiver’s lived experiences with non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI; intentional damage to body tissue without suicidal intent) is missing within the field, with most research focusing on parent experiences of their child’s NSSI. Ignoring parents’ own lived experience with NSSI restricts efforts to fully support family well-being as it is unknown if past or current parental engagement in NSSI impacts parental identity, family dynamics, and family functioning. This PhD will explore the experience of being a parent who has a history of NSSI through a series of qualitative and quantitative studies.
Aim
To understand the experience of being a parent with lived experience of NSSI.
Objectives
Research questions will be developed with the candidate but may include:
- How does having lived and/or living experience of NSSI impact one’s role as a parent?
- How does a parents’ lived and/or living experience of NSSI play a role in, and impact, family dynamics?
- How do parents with lived and/or living experience of NSSI navigate disclosure and/or discoveries of NSSI within the family context?
- How does stigma and its multiple forms play a role in the lives of parents with lived and/or living experience of NSSI and within their family context?
- How does a parent’s lived and/or living experience of NSSI impact their children?
- How do we optimally support parents with lived and/or living experience of NSSI?
Significance
Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI), the deliberate damage to body tissue without suicidal intent, and for purposes that are not socially sanctioned, is a growing public health concern globally. Typically used as a coping strategy to manage intense or unwanted emotions, NSSI is associated with a variety of mental health concerns and is the most reliable predictor of later suicidal thoughts and behaviours. Although commonly emerging during early adolescence, NSSI can, and does, persist into adulthood. Up to 6% of people over the age of 25 years report a history of NSSI. In addition, the inherent, and often lasting, visibility that comes from scarring can evoke stigma that can persist well after one stops engaging in the behaviour. It is important to understand how past and/or present lived experience of NSSI may affect one’s wellbeing and role as a parent within the family context, so that supports can be tailored to help parents navigate both their own and their child(ren)s wellbeing.
Ideal Candidate
We are looking for a self-motivated PhD candidate with excellent organisation, problem-solving, teamwork, and project management skills. Candidates with strong quantitative and qualitative skills, including familiarity with NSSI are desired for this project. A passion for person-centred approaches to mental health is required, as is the ability to work in sensitive research areas (i.e. NSSI and suicide).
Additionally, the applicants should meet the eligibility criteria for entry into a PhD program at Curtin University.
This project is open Domestic applicants only.
Internship
Internship opportunities may be available with Beyond Blue, headspace, and Men’s Talk.
Scholarship
This project does not have a scholarship attached. As a Domestic student, you are eligible for a tuition fee exemption through the Australian Government’s Research Training Program (RTP). This exemption (known as the RTP Fee Offset) covers tuition fees for the standard duration of your higher degree by research.
Enquires and How to Apply
For enquires about this opportunity contact Professor Penelope Hasking at Penelope.Hasking@curtin.edu.au
To formally apply submit an Expression of Interest to Professor Penelope Hasking during the Central Scholarship round (July 1st – July 31st 2026)