@article{ref1,
title="Diagnostic issues in self-mutilation",
journal="Hospital and community psychiatry",
year="1993",
author="Favazza, Armando R. and Rosenthal, R. J.",
volume="44",
number="2",
pages="134-140",
abstract="OBJECTIVE: Pathological self-mutilation--the deliberate alteration or destruction of body tissue without conscious suicidal intent--was examined both as a symptom of mental disorders and as a distinct syndrome. METHODS: Data from more than 250 articles and books were reviewed, as well as data obtained by the authors from their extensive clinical experience in treating self-mutilating patients. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: The diverse behaviors that constitute pathological self-mutilation can be categorized into three basic types: major--infrequent acts that result in significant tissue damage, usually associated with psychoses and acute intoxications; stereotypic--fixed, rhythmic behavior seemingly devoid of symbolism, commonly associated with mental retardation; and superficial or moderate--behavior such as skin cutting, burning, and scratching associated with a variety of mental disorders. The authors propose that a syndrome of repetitive superficial or moderate self-mutilation should be regarded as an axis I impulse disorder. In most cases, the syndrome coexists with character pathology.<p /> <p>Language: en</p>",
language="en",
issn="0022-1597",
doi="",
url="http://dx.doi.org/"
}