Hidden Self-Harm: Narratives from Psychotherapy

by Maggie Turp

This practical and accessible book of case studies takes a new look at self-harm, focusing particularly on the under-explored area of `hidden' self-harming behaviour. These behaviours may not be immediately identifiable as self-harm by counsellors, therapists or their clients, but Maggie Turp shows how recognition and understanding of hidden self-harm can improve practice with those affected.The author begins by discussing extracts from infant observation studies that reflect on the role of maternal care in encouraging the tendency towards self-care. A series of detailed case studies follows, including a client who has a serious eating disorder, a client who abuses recreational drugs, works excessively to the detriment of his mental and physical health and sustains a series of unconsciously invited 'accidents', and one caught up in 'self-harm by omission', who fails to 'take care' and delays seeking vital medical care. The clinical accounts highlight the importance of attending to the client as a whole person and of building on the self-caring tendency that has prompted him or her to seek help in the form of counselling or psychotherapy.Written from a psychoanalytic perspective, but using straightforward language, Hidden Self-Harm is a valuable resource for social workers, psychologists, teachers, nurses and lay helpers as well as for counsellors and psychotherapists.

242 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 19, 2002