Citation

Wood A. Adv. Psychiatr. Treat. 2009; 15(6): 434-441.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2009, Royal College of Psychiatrists)

DOI

10.1192/apt.bp.107.005348

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Self-harm in adolescents is common and is increasing. It can present to professionals as a symptom of major mental health disturbance or it can form part of a cultural 'norm'. This article reviews current knowledge about self-harm in 12- to 18-year-olds. Definitions of self-harming behaviour, epidemiological and aetiological factors, risk assessment and management of self-harming in various settings are discussed in terms of pragmatic clinical approaches and evidence-based practice.

Language: en

Keywords

adolescent; human; suicide; psychotherapy; sex difference; risk assessment; treatment outcome; ethnicity; risk factor; child behavior; review; antidepressant agent; child psychiatry; automutilation; behavior therapy; self poisoning; cultural factor; age distribution; practice guideline; flupentixol; high risk behavior; family therapy; screening test; evidence based medicine; group therapy