Teen "Cutting" - San Francisco Bay Area Psychotherapy: Adolescent, Adult, Couple, and Family Therapy

Teen Self Injury - "Cutting"

It's not just "cutting. Self-injury is the deliberate harm, mutilation, injury of the body or a body part, not with the intent to commit suicide. The harm, injury or mutilation serves a purpose and involves cutting, burning, scratching, hitting, biting, kicking, head banging and pulling hair out.

Why do teens self-harm?
What parents can do

to release tension

to express anger, or other unacceptable feelings

to punish oneself (guilt)

to "numb out"

to feel "alive"

to have control

to relieve feelings of emptiness

to stop "bad" thoughts

to calm down

to feel euphoric

be available to provide emotional support

don't get angry

listen without saying anything back

try to understand

don't punish or lecture

don't hide objects of harm

don't assume anything

don't be intrusive (snooping, invade privacy)

no blaming or guilt trips

Parents should take this behavior seriously and seek professional help. Kirsten works extensively with teenagers and their family members. Here are some common questions that teens have about therapy.