Záměrné sebepoškozování v dětství a adolescenci (teze disertační práce)

The defended dissertation thesis topic focuses on deliberate self-harm in children and adolescents. Deliberate self-harm is now widely recognized as a specific pattern of self-destructive behaviour, distinguishable from risk-taking behaviour, suicidal behaviour and automutilation. Deliberate self-harm, as well as alcohol and drug abuse, binge eating or starvation, may serve as coping tool, relaxation technique, escape from painful reality or necessary part of social interaction. Worldwide, non-fatal deliberate self-harm is worryingly common among children and adolescents. In Czech republic the phenomenon has become an important public health problem and there is a vast lack of knowledge and information about this subject. We carry out the first czech monograph to help health care professionals recognize and treat deliberate self-harm.