Citation

Longden E, Proctor G. J. Ment. Health 2012; 21(1): 15-22.

Affiliation

Institute of Psychological Sciences , University of Leeds , Leeds , UK.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2012, Informa Healthcare)

DOI

10.3109/09638237.2011.608744

PMID

22257129

Abstract

Background In this paper, reasons reported by people who self-injure to explain this behaviour are presented. Aims Traditional service responses are examined and it is suggested that these may exacerbate the reasons why people self-injure and are likely to create vulnerability to further harm. Method A rationale is presented which suggests that service-providers should aim to respond to the specific feelings underlying self-injury (SI) in a therapeutic way. Results Guidance is provided for implementing constructive responses to SI within clinical practice. Conclusions If service-providers are trained to understand and accept SI as a comprehensible act of coping, then attitudes of respect and empathy are more likely to be exhibited. In turn, these approaches are therapeutic to service-users, potentially mitigating the feelings that initially prompt SI.

Language: en