Contemporary approaches for the reduction of self-harm episodes in adolescents.

Abstract

Background: Deliberate Self-Hann (DSH) is a field of which not much is known about in relation to the ongoing increasing co-morbidity rate exhibited by adolescents. The reason why adolescents are retaining such behaviour, what are the precipitating factors causing it, and how it should be dealt with, are all issues about which there is yet few empirical data informing professionals. Objective: This study aims at presenting a clearer view of the effectiveness of contemporary therapies available, and their effectiveness in reducing episodes of adolescent DSH- How effective are contemporary approaches in the reduction of self-harm episodes in adolescents? Method: A number of key-words were identified and researched sequentially through the online databases provided by the University of Malta and others found available. Articles issuing samples including males and females, all ethnic groups, and adolescent were included, while eliminating those not having available full text articles. The literature found was initially filtered, removing irrelevant studies and was consequently appraised using a modified version of the Polit & Hungler's Assessment tool- 1997 (Cutcliffe, J. & Ward, M. 2007). Results: The studies showed that several interventions like Cognitive/Dialectical Behavioural Therapy and Group Therapy can be offered for adolescents experiencing DSH. Conclusion: The provision of multiple therapies for such situations is felt to produce more effective results rather that single therapies.