Citation

Heide S, Kleiber M. Dtsch Arztebl Ausg A 2006; 103(40): A2627-2633.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2006, Deutscher Ärzte-Verlag)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Deliberate self harm (DSH) is the term for self inflicted physical injury without suicidal intent. Among plethora of motivations, it is possible to distinguish between psychological, legal and material causes.

METHODS: Selective literature review and dicsussion.

RESULTS: Reliable incidence data on deliberate self harm, which ranges from cutting to limb amputation, are lacking in Germany. However, data emerging from academic departments of forensic medicine suggest that periodic clusters of so-called "copycat" DSH episodes arise, in response to episodes of self harm publicized in the media.

DISCUSSION: Self-inflicted injuries show characteristic features which can be used to distinguish them from injuries inflicted by third parties. The sooner self harm is recognized as such, the sooner medical help can be offered and possible judicial consequences avoided.

Language: de

Keywords

human; incidence; suicide attempt; review; motivation; mental disease; automutilation; legal aspect; medical literature; Self-mutilation; Self-inflicted injuries; amputation; Forensic medical reports; Insurance fraud; Simulation of a criminal offence