An insight into the world of self-injury

Abstract

The purpose of this paper was to provide general information regarding self-injury in the adolescent population. This paper addressed various aspects of self-injury including the following: typical characteristics of self-injurers, possible reasons as to why individuals self-injure, treatment options, and recommendations for those who work with self-injurers. Also included in this paper are a critique of the current research and recommendations for future research. One of the recommendations is to research the possibility of including self-injury as a separate classification in the Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders. Another recommendation for future research is to classify self-injurious behavior according to the motive behind the behavior (i.e. manipulative intent or tension release). A third recommendation for future research is to focus on the reactions of those involved who work with self-injurers (i.e. parents, school counselors, and siblings). The reaction of these individuals may influence self-injurers in a positive or negative way.