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Date of Graduation
Spring 2011
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Educational Specialist (EdS)
Department
Department of Graduate Psychology
Advisor(s)
Madeleine Dupre
Eric W. Cowan
Anne L. Stewart
Abstract
This research project details cutting as a coping mechanism for adolescent females, specifically looking at the functions of cutting, e.g. affect regulation, anti-dissociation, and self-punishment. Self-injury manifested in cutting is essentially different from suicidal gesturing in that the self-injurer is attempting to avoid death. Despite the vast amount of research encouraging therapists to hear the pain behind the scream, many clinicians focus on the behavior itself, neglecting the layers of meaning beneath the cutting. Paralleling the literature review is the case study of Artemis, an adolescent female. Presented in detail are her experiences and utilization of cutting. Implications and recommendations for mental health professionals working with adolescent females who cut are presented.
Recommended Citation
Moore, Lisa Anne, "Tending to the wound: Understanding the functions of cutting as a coping mechanism for adolescent females" (2011). Educational Specialist, 2009-2019. 67.
https://commons.lib.jmu.edu/edspec201019/67
