The destruction of life: self-injurious behaviors

Abstract

The purpose of this paper was to provide information regarding self-injury, primarily of young females, to the public. This paper addressed several aspects of self-injury. The function of self-injury which may include control or vengeance was discussed. Several characteristics of those who self-injure including impulsivity and low self-concept was included in this paper. Contributing factors of self-injury such as abuse was addressed. The three different types of self-injury, major, stereotypic, and superficial self-injury were all discussed in this paper. Some diagnoses associated with self-injury such as depression and personality disorders was included. Possible treatments of self-injury including medication, therapy, and inpatient programs were also addressed in this paper. Also included in the paper are a summary of the research used in this literature review and recommendations for future research. One recommendation was to get reactions from those close to the self-injurer. Another recommendation was to monitor the success of those who completed treatment as part of a longitudinal study. The final recommendation was to use proactive measures to educate adolescents on self-injurious behaviors which may lower the high number or people who use this as a means of communication. Since self-injury is so prevalent in today's society, the need to be knowledgeable has become necessary, especially for those who work with self-injurers.