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Self-Harm

By Kristalyn Salters-Pedneault, PhD, About.com

Updated: August 16, 2008

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by Steven Gans, MD

Definition:

Self-harm behavior includes any deliberate attempt to harm or destroy body tissue. Self-harm is done without suicidal intent, but is severe enough to cause physical injury.

Examples of self-harming behaviors include cutting, burning, head-banging, and severe scratching.

Also Known As: parasuicidal behavior, self-injury, self-mutilation, self-injurious behavior, deliberate self-harm

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