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Coping and problem solving of self-mutilators.

J Haines·C L Williams
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Abstract

People who self-mutilate have been hypothesized to have deficient skills in coping and problem-solving that leave them vulnerable to the adoption of self-mutilation as a coping strategy. This hypothesis was tested using male incarcerated self-mutilators with comparisons being made with non-multilating, prisoner, and non-prisoner control groups. Examination of the inherent resources which enable an individual to effectively cope with stress demonstrated a depressed score for self-mutilators on the scale measuring self-worth and optimism about life. Assessment of the strategies used to cope with real problems demonstrated that self-mutilators engage in more problem avoidance behaviors. Self-mutilators also recorded less perceived control over problem-solving options. The results are discussed in terms of the effectiveness of self-mutilation as a coping strategy and the need to adopt a multidimensional approach to the investigation of coping.

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Adaptation, PsychologicalAdolescentAdultDefense MechanismsDepressionHumansInternal-External ControlMalePersonality InventoryPrisonersProblem SolvingSelf MutilationJournal Article

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J Haines, C L Williams. 1997. Coping and problem solving of self-mutilators.. https://doi.org/10.1002/(sici)1097-4679(199702)53%3A2%3C177%3A%3Aaid-jclp11%3E3.0.co%3B2-h

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