City Research Online

Abstract

Genital self-injury refers to the deliberate action of harming one’s own body tissue with the aim of modifying this area or in the context of wishing to alleviate oneself from overwhelming feelings relating to their genital area.

Despite self-harming behaviours being considerably investigated in the available literature, genital self-injury is a presentation that has been rarely discussed despite its severity and the serious medical complications it is associated with.

Existing research supports the notion that there are variations between sexes with regards to the functions and motivations which underlie their genital self-injury.

This study aims to contribute to body of knowledge by exploring the experience of genital self-injury in adult women. For the purposes of this study, two participants were included. Collection of data using semi-structured interviews were further analysed through the method of Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. Findings that emerged from the data were presented through four master themes: ‘Making Sense of Self-Harm’, ‘Perceived Defectiveness’, ‘The Struggle of Practicing Self-Care’ and ‘Targeted Harm’.

The insights that emerged from these findings illustrated the participant’s sense-making of their behaviour as well as underlying factors and motivations that were associated with their engagement in genital self-injury. All themes speak to the complex interplay between the participants’ self-perception in the context of various aspects and experiences such as shame, trauma or dissociation and the way in which they manage their emotional distress through the targeted and specific nature of genital self-injury.

Relevance of these findings in the context of existing literature is discussed and clinical implications for training and practice are examined. These include the importance of professionals demonstrating awareness and openness in discussing genital self-injury, exploring and addressing its underlying function as well as considering suggesting harmminimisation strategies where cessation of genital self-injury may not be possible. Suggestions for future research are also further explored.

Publication Type:	Thesis (Doctoral)
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology
Departments:	School of Health & Psychological Sciences > Psychology School of Health & Psychological Sciences > School of Health & Psychological Sciences Doctoral Theses Doctoral Theses

Export

Downloads