Download Self-Harming Behaviour

Appendix C APH019
Self-Harming Behaviour
Self- harming behaviour is the deliberate injury by an individual to parts of his or her body. This
behaviour is not exclusive to suicidal thoughts.
Self -harming behaviours are often a mechanism for coping with intense emotions. Children and
adolescents engaging in self-harming behaviours often have skill deficits in managing emotional
stress, communicating and problem solving. Family issues and/or personal trauma may also
contribute to their distress.
Self- harming behaviours that require an immediate response by WCDSB staff include:

Deliberate scratching or cutting skin with objects (razors, paper clips, scissors etc.)
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Intentionally burning skin/hair
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Persistent or intense scratching or picking until skin bleeds,
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Repetitive interfering with wounds that are healing
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Hair pulling (including eye brows, eye lashes)
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Hitting or punching self, head banging