The Use of Involved Neutrality with Self-Mutilative Behavior Among Young People in Residential Settings

Self-mutilative behavior by young people in residential programs is a major cause of concern. It is a behavior that is quite distressing to family members, caregivers, service providers, other clients, and, often, the young people themselves. It can be the cause of severe disruption in residential program. Self-mutilation is difficult to understand and even more difficult to successfully treat. This article examines the definitions, dynamics, causes and treatment of the self-mutilative behavior of young people in residential programs and as well, the differences between self-mutilation and suicide are outlined. The article then discusses how modifications in staff reactions can be used to effectively decrease rates of self-mutilative behavior even in the contagious episodes often experienced in residential treatment programs.