title: The function of self-harm behavior in a forensic population.
abstract: This article examines the functions of self-injurious behavior (SIB) in forensic populations. The cases of four individual offenders who have engaged in SIB are presented. These cases depict the four main functions of self-harm behaviors including (a) suicidal intent, (b) manipulation of the environment, (c) emotion regulation, and (d) a response to psychotic delusions or hallucinations. Assessment and treatment implications are discussed.
authors.affiliation: Department of Psychology, John Jay College of Criminal Justice, The City University of New York, 445 West 59th Street, New York, New York 10019-1199, USA.
authors.forename: Elizabeth L
authors.initials: EL
authors.lastname: Jeglic
authors.forename: Holly A
authors.initials: HA
authors.lastname: Vanderhoff
authors.forename: Peter J
authors.initials: PJ
authors.lastname: Donovick
mesh_terms: D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000328:Adult; D032763:Behavior Control; D003702:Delusions / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000523:psychology; D004644:Emotions; D005260:Female; D006212:Hallucinations / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000523:psychology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010552:Personality Assessment; D011329:Prisoners / Q000523:psychology*; D011618:Psychotic Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000523:psychology; D016728:Self-Injurious Behavior / Q000523:psychology*; D013406:Suicide, Attempted / Q000523:psychology