2. Definitions of Self-Harm
There are many terms and definitions for self-harm
Deliberate self-harm (DSH): “the purposeful, direct destruction
of body tissue, without conscious suicidal intent or need for
stimulation” (Sim, Adrian, Zeman, Cassano, & Friedrich, 2009,
p. 76)
Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI): “the intentional destruction of
body tissue without suicidal intent, such as in the cases of
deliberately cutting or burning of the skin” (Brausch &
Gutierrez, 2010, p. 233)
Self-harm
“the intentional harming of one’s body in order to reduce emotional
pain and cope with overwhelming emotions” (Brown & Kimball, 2013,
p. 195)
“the deliberate and voluntary physical self-injury that is not life-
threatening and is without any conscious suicidal intent” (Laye-
Gindhu & Schonert-Reichl, 2005, p. 447)
3. Indicators of Self-Harm
Those who engage in self-harm are generally:
Female*
Start self-harm behaviors before or during adolescence
Have experienced trauma
Have low self-esteem
Difficulty expressing emotions
Difficulty coping
*It should be noted that this is controversial, as study results may be skewed due to males seeking
treatment and disclosing less often
(Brown & Kimball, 2013)
4. Reasons for Self-Harm
Regulate or distract from emotions
Relief of emotional numbness
Relief of loneliness
Coping/self-preservation
Provide sense of control
Addiction
(Sim et al., 2009; Brown & Kimball, 2013)
5. Common Types of Self-Harm
Cutting
Burning
Scratching
Breaking bones
Banging head on objects
Punching self
Pulling out hair
Picking scabs
Interfering with wound healing
(Brown & Kimball, 2013)
6. Interventions
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT)
Emotion regulation skills
Biopsychosocial model for self-harm assessment
Family therapy
Suggestions for professionals
Don’t assume the client is suicidal
Don’t judge the client (e.g., call them crazy, suggest that they are
abnormal, etc.)
Educate yourself about self-harm
(Sim et al., 2009; Brown & Kimball, 2013)
7. References
Brausch, A. M., & Gutierrez, P. M. (2010). Differences in non-
suicidal self-injury and suicide attempts in adolescents.
Journal of Youth and Adolescence, 39(3), 233-242.
Brown, T. B., & Kimball, T. (2013). Cutting to Live: A
Phenomenology of Self‐Harm. Journal of Marital and Family
Therapy, 39(2), 195-208.
Laye-Gindhu, A., & Schonert-Reichl, K. A. (2005). Nonsuicidal
self-harm among community adolescents: Understanding
the “whats” and “whys” of self-harm. Journal of Youth and
Adolescence, 34(5), 447-457.
Sim, L., Adrian, M., Zeman, J., Cassano, M., & Friedrich, W.
N. (2009). Adolescent Deliberate Self‐Harm: Linkages to
Emotion Regulation and Family Emotional Climate.
Journal of Research on Adolescence, 19(1), 75-91.
