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Self-Mutilation, Nonsuicidal Self-Injury, and Body Modification in Culture and History

David Peterson

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Published in Bodies Under Siege: Self Mutilation Nonsuicidal Self Injury And Body Modification In Culture And Psychiatry

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Self-mutilation, nonsuicidal self-injury, and body modification are all forms of self-harm that have been practiced for centuries. While these behaviors are often associated with mental illness, they can also be a way for people to express themselves, cope with stress, or rebel against society.

Bodies under Siege: Self-mutilation, Nonsuicidal Self-injury, and Body Modification in Culture and Psychiatry

by Armando R. Favazza

4.7 out of 5

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In this article, we will explore the history, causes, and consequences of these behaviors. We will also discuss the different ways that society views and treats these behaviors.

History of Self-Mutilation, Nonsuicidal Self-Injury, and Body Modification

Self-mutilation has been practiced for centuries, and there is evidence of it in cultures all over the world. In some cultures, self-mutilation was a ritualized practice that was used to mark important life events, such as puberty or marriage. In other cultures, self-mutilation was used as a form of punishment or torture.

Nonsuicidal self-injury is a relatively new phenomenon. It was first described in the medical literature in the 1980s, and it has become increasingly common in recent years. Nonsuicidal self-injury is defined as any intentional self-inflicted harm that is not intended to be fatal.

Body modification is a broad term that refers to any intentional alteration of the human body. Body modification can be done for a variety of reasons, including aesthetic, religious, or cultural reasons.

Causes of Self-Mutilation, Nonsuicidal Self-Injury, and Body Modification

There are many different causes of self-mutilation, nonsuicidal self-injury, and body modification. Some of the most common causes include:

Mental illness
Trauma
Stress
Self-hatred
Rebellion
Attention-seeking

It is important to note that not all people who engage in self-mutilation, nonsuicidal self-injury, or body modification have a mental illness. These behaviors can also be a way for people to cope with difficult life circumstances.

Consequences of Self-Mutilation, Nonsuicidal Self-Injury, and Body Modification

Self-mutilation, nonsuicidal self-injury, and body modification can have a number of negative consequences, including:

Physical pain and injury
Infection
Scarring
Social stigma
Depression
Suicidal thoughts and behaviors

In some cases, self-mutilation, nonsuicidal self-injury, or body modification can be fatal.

Society's View of Self-Mutilation, Nonsuicidal Self-Injury, and Body Modification

Society's view of self-mutilation, nonsuicidal self-injury, and body modification has varied throughout history and across cultures. In some cultures, these behaviors are seen as a sign of weakness or mental illness. In other cultures, they are seen as a way of expressing oneself or coping with difficult life circumstances.

In recent years, there has been a growing movement to destigmatize self-mutilation, nonsuicidal self-injury, and body modification. This movement has been led by people who have experienced these behaviors themselves, as well as by mental health professionals and advocates.

Treatment for Self-Mutilation, Nonsuicidal Self-Injury, and Body Modification

There are a number of different treatments available for self-mutilation, nonsuicidal self-injury, and body modification. These treatments include:

Therapy
Medication
Self-help groups
Harm reduction

The best treatment for self-mutilation, nonsuicidal self-injury, or body modification will vary depending on the individual person and their specific circumstances.

Self-mutilation, nonsuicidal self-injury, and body modification are complex behaviors that can have a significant impact on the individual's life. These behaviors are often misunderstood and stigmatized, but it is important to remember that they are not a sign of weakness or mental illness. There are many different causes of self-mutilation, nonsuicidal self-injury, and body modification, and there are a number of different treatments available. If you or someone you know is struggling with these behaviors, please seek professional help.

References

American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disFree Downloads (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing.
Klonsky, E. D., & Muehlenkamp, J. J. (2007). Nonsuicidal self-injury: A review of the literature. Clinical Psychology Review, 27(3),240-254.
Lewis, M. H., & Feldman, M. D. (2008). Body modification: A cultural history. New York: Berg.

Bodies under Siege: Self-mutilation, Nonsuicidal Self-injury, and Body Modification in Culture and Psychiatry

by Armando R. Favazza

4.7 out of 5