[Self-mutilation in men--injury pattern and motivation]

6 cases of self-inflicted injuries in male individuals are reported. The age of the affected men was between 15 and 46 years whereas the younger age predominated. Alleged incidents were robberies in 3 cases, rape in one case, violation in custody in one case and an assault originating in personal motives in one case. In 4 cases, the typical injury pattern of self-infliction was present showing parallel course and superficiality of the wounds in areas accessable by the persons's own hands. In 2 cases, atypical injuries (i.e. deep cuts and massive signs of strangulation respectively) were found. However, in most cases, the underlying motive was to gain affection. An autoerotic accident was tried to be disguised in one case. Profit was the leading motive in another case.