Citation

Verschueren S, Berends T, Kool-Goudzwaard N, van Huigenbosch E, Gamel C, Dingemans A, van Elburg A, van Meijel B. Perspect. Psychiatr. Care 2014; 51(1): 63-70.

Affiliation

Research Group Mental Health Nursing/Cluster Nursing, Inholland University of Applied Sciences, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Amsterdam School of Health Professions, Amsterdam University of Applied Science, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2014, John Wiley and Sons)

DOI

10.1111/ppc.12061

PMID

24433524

Abstract

PURPOSE: This study investigates self-injury from the perspective of patients with anorexia nervosa. DESIGN AND METHODS: A phenomenological design was used. Twelve patients participated. Data were collected using a semi-structured interview guide. FINDINGS: Participants display self-injurious behavior predominantly in situations when they are forced to eat. They are terrified of gaining weight and use self-injurious behavior to cope with their anxiety. Self-injury is envisioned as a technique to regain control of their own eating pattern without bothering anyone. They feel shame for not controlling their emotions more constructively. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: Healthcare professionals should systematically observe signals and explore less harmful strategies that help to regulate overwhelming feelings.

Language: en