Art therapy with a self-mutilating adolescent girl

Journal/Book: Amer J Art Ther. 1996; 34: Vermont Coll of Norwich Univ, Montpelier, VT 05602. Amer J Art Therapy. 98-106.

Abstract: Self-mutilation is presented as a self-destructive act with positive intentions toward self-healing and symptom relief, in such areas as sexual anxiety, aggression and hostility, purification of guilt and the preservation of order, boundary diffusion and separation anxiety, and trauma. ?This article presents the case of an adolescent girl in art therapy whose self-mutilative behavior and related problems are reflected in the content and process of her artwork. The advantages of art therapy treatment for self-mutilating clients are discussed. Not only is visual art a suitable alternative language for nonverbal acting-out self-mutilators, it also provides opportunities to exercise the same destructive and integrative urges that underlie their self-abuse. The art surface may metaphorically provide a healing function similar to that provided by self-mutilation in that it creates a protective layer-a skin-for the self, as in the formation of scar tissue.

Note: Article D Milia, 141 Essex St, Apt A, New York, NY 10002 USA

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