Self-injury anl self capacities: Assisting an individual in crisis

Author(s): Nicholls, S. S., Pearlman, L. A.

Journal/Book: J Clin Psychol. 2000; 56: 605 Third Ave, New York, NY 10158-0012, USA. John Wiley & Sons Inc. 1173-1191.

Abstract: This article reports findings of a study on self-injury. Childhood abuse, and self capacities that supports a theory for understanding and assisting self-injuring individuals in crisis. In the study. 233 adults from partial hospital settings and an outpatient clinic answered questions concerning self-injury, abuse history, and three self capacities (the ability to tolerate strong affect, the ability to maintain a sense of self-worth, and the ability to maintain a sense of connection to others). More than 60% reported childhood abuse. More than half reported self-injury. Individuals with a history of self-injury showed greater impairment of self capacities than individuals who did nor report self-injury. Individuals with a history of childhood abuse showed greater impairment than did individuals who did not report childhood abuse. Greatest impairment was associated with both self-injury and abuse. Implications of the results are explored and the theory for assisting self-injuring individuals in crisis is presented.

Note: Article Deiter PJ, Adult & Adolescent Psychol Serv LLC, 124 Hebron Ave, East Wing, Glastonbury,CT 06033 USA

Keyword(s): self-injury; child abuse; crisis; emergency; SEXUAL ABUSE; MUTILATION; CHILDHOOD; BEHAVIOR

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