Self-mutilation, also known as self-injury, is defined as the deliberate, intentional infliction of physical harm on one’s own body (Favazza, 1996). It is an act of self-harm that can take many forms, including cutting, burning, scratching, hitting, and picking (Klonsky, 2007). Despite the wide range of behaviors associated with self-mutilation, it is important to note that there is no single cause of self-mutilation that applies to all individuals who engage in this behavior (Klonsky, 2007).
There is a lack of consensus on the prevalence of self-mutilation, however one estimate suggests that 17% of US adolescents engage in self-injurious behavior (Muehlenkamp & Gutierrez, 2004). Research also suggests that self-mutilation is more common among women than men (Nock & Prinstein, 2004). Additionally, self-mutilation is more likely to occur in individuals with a history of depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance abuse (Klonsky, 2007).
Despite the lack of consensus on the causes of self-mutilation, recent research has begun to shed light on the potential underlying mechanisms of this behavior. One prominent explanation is the cognitive-behavioral model of self-mutilation (Klonsky, 2007). This model suggests that people engage in self-mutilation in order to regulate their emotional states in the short-term. Specifically, self-mutilation is proposed to be a maladaptive coping mechanism that is used to reduce psychological distress (Klonsky, 2007).
In conclusion, self-mutilation is a complex behavior that has a range of potential causes. While research on the prevalence of self-mutilation is still inconclusive, it is clear that it is more common in women and individuals with a history of mental health issues. Additionally, the cognitive-behavioral model of self-mutilation offers a potential explanation for why certain individuals may engage in self-harm.
References
Favazza, A. R. (1996). Bodies under siege: Self-mutilation in culture and psychiatry (2nd ed.). Baltimore, MD: The Johns Hopkins University Press.
Klonsky, E. D. (2007). The functions of self-injury: A review of the evidence. Clinical Psychology Review, 27(2), 226-239.
Muehlenkamp, J. J., & Gutierrez, P. M. (2004). Frequency and correlates of self-injurious behavior among adolescents. Clinical Psychology Review, 24(3), 371-390.
Nock, M. K., & Prinstein, M. J. (2004). A functional approach to the assessment of self-mutilative behavior. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 72(5), 885-890.