Understanding Self-Injurious Behaviors: Treatment and Implications for School Counselors

Abstract

This review examined the implications of dealing with students who self-harm and how school counselors can effectively cope with this ever prominent issue among adolescents. The current study examined the trend of school counselors who have adopted a school or district-wide policy which dictates whether parent contact was made when a student presents with self-injury. Eighty-five different schools throughout Western New York were surveyed as to the existence of a policy or procedure. The respondents were asked specifically whether parents or guardians were contacted whenever a student presents with self-injurious behavior or if each situation was examined individually. This information was then used to promote discussions regarding the implementation of a policy or procedure at the internship site. A resource manual was also constructed for the education and use of the counseling staff. Implications for further research and limitations of this study were also discussed.