Young people who cut themselves: can understanding the reasons guide the treatment?

Young people who cut themselves may do so for reasons that go beyond diagnosis. Relevant processes include responses to trauma, coping, emotion regulation and cultural identification. Some clinicians regard those who self-harm negatively or consider one therapeutic approach to be suitable for all. This article explores the possible mechanisms involved when young people cut themselves and discusses therapeutic approaches in the light of these. Clinicians and researchers are encouraged to refine, develop and research interventions for young people who self-harm by cutting.