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Parentpedia
Cutting
What Experts Say
Cutting -- when teens intentionally use sharp objects to create cuts on their arms, legs, or other body parts -- appears to be occurring more often, especially among teenage girls. There are several hypotheses about why teens cut. They may experience it as a release of emotional pain or, conversely, they might do it as a way to feel anything instead of numbness. Whatever the reason, teens are turning to cutting to cope with emotional problems.
Dr. Lori G. Plante, author of the book Bleeding to Ease the Pain: Cutting, Self-Injury, and the Adolescent Search for Self, suggests that if you discover that your teen is cutting, try to stay calm and not panic. While it's difficult to see your child hurting herself, it's usually not a sign of a parent's worst fear. Cutting is not usually...
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Severe depression and psychological disorders sometimes cause teenagers to cut themselves. It also can be a result of sexual abuse. Cutters may also have other self-destructive behaviors such as drug abuse or eating disorders. Sometimes peer pressure or the need to fit in causes some kids to begin cutting. Some groups mark themselves with cuts as a type of ritual. Often what may start as an accident can quickly spiral into dangerous behavior. Whatever the cause, if you feel you child is engaging in these behaviors, know that it is a compulsive and addictive behavior and the best way to help your child is through professional counseling. HelpGuide.org offers a great deal of information on cutting and ways to help your child free themselves from this destructive behavior.
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