Publisher Description

Why do some people repeatedly injure themselves? How common is this form of self-harm? How can professionals offer appropriate intervention and support to those whose lives are troubled by it, either directly or indirectly? This authoritative and systematic book adopts a holistic approach to the problem of repeated self-injury and the difficult emotions and experiences that it gives rise to.Bringing together theory, research and a wealth of case vignettes, Understanding Repeated Self-Injury examines both the psychological and physical aspects of self-injury. The authors explain how deliberate cutting or burning of the skin is used by many as a way to overcome and temporarily escape bad feeling and thus transcend the limits of their identity.In particular, the book- Presents a unifying model for theory and practice, based on the phenomenology of self-injury- Examines the important role of identity and dissociation in perpetuating self-injury- Considers the wider impact of self-injury on family and friends, and on staff- Addresses treatment strategies and self-help resourcesEach chapter draws on the authors' considerable clinical experience across a range of contexts, and is written with professionals and trainees particularly in mind. This book is an essential introduction and indispensable resource for those working, or considering to work, in counselling, therapeutic and health care settings where they are or might be confronted with the complexities of self-injury.

Notes

This readable and authoritative book draws on the experience of two professional to examine why people self-harm and offer therapeutic suggestions for intervention and self-help.

Back Cover

Why do some people repeatedly injure themselves? How common is this form of self-harm? How can professionals offer appropriate intervention and support to those whose lives are troubled by it, either directly or indirectly? This authoritative and systematic book adopts a holistic approach to the problem of repeated self-injury and the difficult emotions and experiences that it gives rise to. Bringing together theory, research and a wealth of case vignettes, Understanding Repeated Self-Injury examines both the psychological and physical aspects of self-injury. The authors explain how deliberate cutting or burning of the skin is used by many as a way to overcome and temporarily escape bad feeling and thus transcend the limits of their identity. In particular, the book - presents a unifying model for theory and practice, based on the phenomenology of self-injury - examines the important role of identity and dissociation in perpetuating self-injury - considers the wider impact of self-injury on family and friends, and on staff - addresses treatment strategies and self-help resources. Each chapter draws on the authors' considerable clinical experience across a range of contexts, and is written with professionals and trainees particularly in mind. This book is an essential introduction and indispensable resource for those working, or considering to work, in counselling, therapeutic and health care settings where they are or might be confronted with the complexities of self-injury.

Table of Contents

PrefaceThe Basics Facts About Self-InjuryUnderstanding the Person Who Self-InjuresA Unifying Model Based on the Phenomenology of Self-InjuryOvercoming Self-InjuryMoulds and MatricesChallenges for the CarerFirst Professional Responses to Self-InjuryRecoverySummary and Conclusions.

Review

'...a book that is rich in experience and common sense. It should be essential reading for junior medical staff.' - Keith Lloyd, Psychiatric Bulletin 'Self-harm gives rise to difficult emotions and experiences: a book which provides the reader with support and therapeutic interventions when confronted with this sensitive issue is to be welcomed.' - Keith Lloyd, Psychiatric Bulletin

Promotional

...essential reading for healthcare professionals who are seeking an in-depth, comprehensive and holistic perspective on self-harm...[a] fascinating book...' - Healthcare Counselling and Psychotherapy Journal

Long Description

Why do some people repeatedly injure themselves? How common is this form of self-harm? How can professionals offer appropriate intervention and support to those whose lives are troubled by it, either directly or indirectly? This authoritative and systematic book adopts a holistic approach to the problem of repeated self-injury and the difficult emotions and experiences that it gives rise to. Bringing together theory, research and a wealth of case vignettes, Understanding Repeated Self-Injury examines both the psychological and physical aspects of self-injury. The authors explain how deliberate cutting or burning of the skin is used by many as a way to overcome and temporarily escape bad feeling and thus transcend the limits of their identity.

Review Quote

'...a book that is rich in experience and common sense. It should be essential reading for junior medical staff.' - Keith Lloyd, Psychiatric Bulletin

Feature

Appeals across a wide variety of health care disciplines Accessible and authoritative, ensuring relevance for both newcomers and seasoned professionals Sensitive and empathetic understanding of difficult subject matter

Description for Bookstore

Self-wounding is surprisingly common with one in every 600 people wounding themselves sufficiently to receive hospital treatment. This concise and informed introduction is written primarily as a resource for health care professionals and explores both why people hurt themselves and the impact of their behaviour on others. Covering both the psychological and physical aspects of repeated self-wounding, the book presents the latest research evidence and uses engaging case examples. Therapeutic options are discussed. The book also addresses some of the difficulties professionals, family and friends experience when seeking to provide treatment and care.

Details