Adolescent Self-Mutilating Behaviors: Experiential Avoidance Coupled with Imitation? Page: 6
This dissertation is part of the collection entitled: UNT Theses and Dissertations and was provided to UNT Digital Library by the UNT Libraries.
Extracted Text
The following text was automatically extracted from the image on this page using optical character recognition software:
Number of Episodes
RSM, by definition, is a repetitive behavior. Many operational definitions of self-harm
simply assessed for the presence or absence of any history of self-harm. Gratz (2001) argued that
there are likely significant differences between individuals who engage in self-harming
behaviors only once or twice, and those who chronically engage in repetitive self-harm
behaviors. For the purposes of the current study, the repetitive component is highly salient for
differentiating between individuals who have tried and abandoned self-mutilation as a failed
coping mechanism, and those who continue to engage in RSM. Therefore, to be considered
repetitive self-mutilation (RSM), the behavior must occur a minimum of five times. This
number, although perhaps viewed as an arbitrary cutoff, was chosen for the current study based
on empirical findings. Langbehn and Pfohl (1993) found that a majority of patients admitted to a
psychiatric hospital for RSM had engaged in self-mutilating behavior five or more times.
Pattison and Kahan's (1983) review of the literature also indicated a marked skew toward
multiple episodes, with 59% experiencing five to 100 episodes. In addition, half of Rosenthal et
al.'s (1972) "wrist-cutter" inpatient population had cut themselves on more than five occasions.
A Working Definition ofRepetitive Self-Mutilation
Repetitive self-mutilation is defined in this study as direct, socially unacceptable,
repetitive behavior that causes mild to moderate physical injury. These behaviors lack suicidal
intent and are not associated with cognitive impairment. To be considered RSM, self-mutilation
of any kind or combination must have occurred a minimum of five times. Repetitive acts of self-
injury that are culturally sanctioned (e.g., self-flagellation for religious purposes) or do not serve
the function of regulating affect (e.g., body piercing as individualistic expression) are not
Upcoming Pages
Here’s what’s next.
Search Inside
This dissertation can be searched. Note: Results may vary based on the legibility of text within the document.
Tools / Downloads
Get a copy of this page or view the extracted text.
Citing and Sharing
Basic information for referencing this web page. We also provide extended guidance on usage rights, references, copying or embedding.
Reference the current page of this Dissertation.
Howe-Martin, Laura S. Adolescent Self-Mutilating Behaviors: Experiential Avoidance Coupled with Imitation?, dissertation, August 2008; Denton, Texas. (https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc9087/m1/15/: accessed April 25, 2024), University of North Texas Libraries, UNT Digital Library, https://digital.library.unt.edu; .