Author(s): Gloria Babiker and Lois Arnold

Self-Harm

This book is intended to be a sourcebook for all those who work with people who self-injure, whether in the health and social services, forensic services or the voluntary sector. The approach recognises self-injury as a behaviour reflecting complex psychosocial difficulties in distressed individuals. The topic of self-mutilation is defined and located within the range of other self-destructive behaviours such as parasuicide. A detailed examination of the origins and functional nature of self-injury forms the basis for the authors' recommendations towards providing services in this area. The issues facing those who work with people who self-injure are examined in detail. The authors have drawn on their experience to formulate a theoretical foundation with practical guidelines for work in various settings, including psychotherapy. The importance of supervision and support for practitioners working in this area is stressed.