A comparison between pro-anorexia and non-suicidal self-injury blogs: From symptom-based identity to sharing of emotions

From a psychodynamic perspective, this paper presents a comparison between pro-anorexia (pro-Ana) and non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) blogs, which are all built on the basis of a shared, symptom-based identity. A cluster analysis was performed on 40 Italian blogs through T-Lab software to find dimensions of meaning. Four thematic clusters emerged, which, using factorial mapping, fall onto three axes: from closure on the symptom to recounting the malaise; the pain: from psychic to social; from failure of primary relationships to patterns of relational dysfunction. The two types of blog differ both in terms of content and function. The pro- Ana blogs tend to reinforce a portrayal of anorexia as a lifestyle choice that leaves little space for anything or anyone else. The NSSI blogs reveal aspects of relational support and an ambivalent attitude to pain and discomfort. The different dimensions provide a springboard for discussion on clinical implications.