Descriptions of self-mutilation among Finnish adolescents: a qualitative descriptive inquiry

The purpose of this study was to describe self-mutilation from the perspectives of self-mutilating adolescents. A qualitative descriptive design was adopted. Self-mutilating adolescents were asked to write descriptions of their self-mutilation. Data analysis revealed three major categories: descriptions of the factors contributing to self-mutilation, descriptions of the act of self-mutilation, and descriptions of the sequels of self-mutilation. This study adds to our understanding of self-mutilation and the experiences of self-mutilating adolescents. In nursing practice and education, self-mutilation should be discussed based on existing knowledge to make nurses more familiar with it. Nurses should understand this phenomenon as a challenge for developing effective nursing practices.