Are there specific clues that parents can watch for that might indicate a child is engaging in self-injurious behavior?
• Unexplained cuts or bruises • Kids who have trouble modulating emotional states especially sadness, fear and anger are at higher risk for self-injury. • Low self-esteem as evidenced by a tendency to self-denigrate. • Arms and legs are always covered such as wearing cold weather clothes such as long sleeves and pants in warm weather • Presence of an eating disorder and possible substance abuse also seems to related to risk for self-injury.
