Assessing the risk of self-harm in adolescents: A psychoanalytical perspective 1

Author: Anderson, Robin¹

Source: Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy, Volume 14, Number 1, 2000 , pp. 9-21(13)

Publisher: Routledge, part of the Taylor & Francis Group

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Abstract:

This paper explores the way psychodynamic factors can be used to extend and improve the quality of the assessment of adolescents at risk of self-harm. Conventional risk factors are clearly of value to identify those young people who require admission or other interventions. However, a consideration of the internal and external factors and their interaction, as manifest in the transference and in a consideration of the history and present circumstances, allows shape and depth to be added to the assessment. In this way an assessment can be a therapeutic intervention in its own right, and can play a part in reducing the risk. This approach is described and illustrated with clinical examples.

Document Type: Research article

DOI: 10.1080/02668730000700021

Affiliations: 1: Tavistock Clinic, 120 Belsize Lane, London, NW3 5BA