Choice and Continuation of a Method for Self-harm: An Empirical-phenomenological Analysis.

摘要

Self-harm is a growing concern due to the widespread recognition of people who engage in this behavior, which shows a need for further research to be done in order to better understand this phenomenon. This study examines a person's choice and continuation of a specific method to self-harm. This was done by conducting interviews with 3 participants about their experiences with self-harm. The interviews were analyzed using a phenomenological method to best understand the lived experience of this phenomenon. The results show that self-harm might not be a suicidal gesture instead the cut divides the person to connect them; the tool chosen becomes an extension of oneself; control of the act of self-harming as well as the type of tool and cut is vital; pain is an empathic listener not found in their worlds. Through this data it is important to reevaluate the way we work with people who self-harm, acknowledging that taking away the tool they consider to be a part of themselves may be more harmful than helpful.