NCJ Number
209452
Journal
International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology Volume: 49 Issue: 2 Dated: April 2005 Pages: 131-142
Date Published
April 2005
Length
12 pages
Annotation
This article presents four case studies of incarcerated offenders who have engaged in self-injurious behaviors (SIB's).
Abstract
SIB's are more prevalent in forensic populations than the general population, yet little is known about the function or intent of SIB within corrections populations. It is important to understand the intent of SIB's among offenders so that correctional staff and mental health professionals can effectively treat and manage this type of behavior. Four cases are presented of individual offenders who have engaged in SIB's for a variety of reasons, mainly depression and suicidal intent, manipulation of the environment, emotional regulation, and as a response to psychotic delusions or hallucinations. Following a description of each offender’s SIB, the clinical assessment and treatment of each case are outlined. Establishing the function or intent of SIB is critically important for treatment purposes and can be determined through a functional assessment, a thorough history, and collateral contacts. Treatment staff should also be aware that SIB may be resistant to change and long-term treatment may be necessary. The four cases presented here illustrate the typical presentation of SIB in forensic settings, yet they are not representative of all SIB. References