Coping and problem solving of self-mutilators.
People who self-mutilate have been hypothesized to have deficient skills in coping and problem-solving that leave them vulnerable to the adoption of self-mutilation as a coping strategy. This hypothesis was tested using male incarcerated self-mutilators with comparisons being made with non-multilating, prisoner, and non-prisoner control groups. Examination of the inherent resources which enable an individual to effectively cope with stress demonstrated a depressed score for self-mutilators on the scale measuring self-worth and optimism about life. Assessment of the strategies used to cope with real problems demonstrated that self-mutilators engage in more problem avoidance behaviors. Self-mutilators also recorded less perceived control over problem-solving options. The results are discussed in terms of the effectiveness of self-mutilation as a coping strategy and the need to adopt a multidimensional approach to the investigation of coping.
Haines
J
J
University of Tasmania, Australia.
Williams
C L
CL
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D003674:Defense Mechanisms; D003863:Depression / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000523:psychology; D006801:Humans; D007389:Internal-External Control; D008297:Male; D010555:Personality Inventory; D011329:Prisoners / Q000523:psychology; D011340:Problem Solving; D012652:Self Mutilation / Q000523:psychology*