Flores-Soto MR, Cancino-Marentes ME, Figueroa VMR

Language: Spanish
References: 0
Page: 200-216
PDF size: 621.92 Kb.

ABSTRACT

In the present paper, we compile the findings of different publications about self-injurious behaviors without suicidal intention in adolescents. In relation to its conceptualization and typology, it is defined that self-injurious behaviors are act of expression and self-regulation of emotions in an intentional way, through which the subjects self-inflict physical damage without any conscious desire to die, for which reason suicidal attempt is excluded. There is a broad classification of the this type of behavior describing it like a psychiatric illness or an expression and identification form in teenagers in order to fit into their environment, usually characterized by skin cutting and burns. Epidemiology reported a prevalence of this behavior in 13-29 % of the adolescent population, presented at least once in their lives. This behavior is reported as more common in women. Finally, references of the determining factors on biological, psychological and social aspects that may influence the presence of this behavior are presented, finding within them a great contribution to develop public health interventions to comply with essential functions of promotion and prevention.