RESUMEN
TOPIC: The phenomenon of self-mutilating behavior. PURPOSE: Self-multilating behavior (SMB) creates serious management problems in psychiatric settings and typically begins in adolescence. In order to plan and provide effective nursing interventions, it is necessary nurses be knowledgeable about the phenomenon. This paper provides definitions, historical views, and types of SMB, along with a description of current research and speculations about intent. This framework offers a background to nursing interventions focused on identifying at-risk adolescents and treating this bewildering behavior. SOURCES: Published literature. CONCLUSIONS: Mental health professionals find treatment of SMB a challenge and nursing is in a unique position to provide effective interventions.