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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 an indication of suicidal behavior; rather, it is an expression of emotional distress.
However, cutting does indicate that a teen needs help coping with the stress she's experiencing. Respond by expressing calm concern and encouraging your teen to talk about what she's going through. You should seek the help of a mental health professional. Therapy can help your teen understand her emotions and learn healthy ways to cope with stress.
You might also benefit from therapy to help you develop new strategies of supporting your teen.
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