Self-inflicted wounding. 2: Identification, assessment and management

The spectrum of conditions associated with self-inflicted wounding and their presenting features were outlined in the first part of this article (Moffatt, 1999). In part two, the assessment and management of self-wounding patients is discussed. Manipulative behaviour can be a barrier to treatment, as well as a disruptive force within the healthcare team. Awareness of its effects are essential to the successful development of a therapeutic relationship. However, the current possibilities for effective treatment of self-wounding are limited, and there is an urgent need for more research into both its causes and the various management options available.