Common findings in habitual self-mutilators:
(1) usually female
(2) onset is usually during early adolescence
(3) usually impulsive
(4) commits the harming act in attempt to gain relief from negative feelings or thoughts
(5) has other addictive behaviors (eating disorder, drug, alcohol, etc.)
(6) has psychiatric problems (depression, borderline personality disorder, etc.)
(7) had a troubled childhood (physical or sexual abuse, etc).
(8) have close family members with addictive behaviors and/or psychiatric problems
(9) may have multiple scars from previous harming episodes
(10) may find common interventions of little help in controlling the behavior
Number of self-harming episodes: multiple (may have 50 or more over the years)
Means of self-harm:
(1) burning
(2) cutting
(3) hitting
(4) unnecessary surgical or dental procedures
(5) bone fractures
where:
• Multiple tattoos or piercings might qualify as well.
The acts of self-harm are not intended to result in suicide. However, the person may attempt suicide if severely depressed.
The authors distinguish self-harm from acts performed as part of a cultural right-of-passage.
