Childhood trauma, dissociation and self-harming behaviour: a pilot study.

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  • Author(s): Low G;Low G; Jones D; MacLeod A; Power M; Duggan C
  • Source:
    The British journal of medical psychology [Br J Med Psychol] 2000 Jun; Vol. 73 ( Pt 2), pp. 269-78.
  • Publication Type:
    Journal Article; Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Language:
    English
  • Additional Information
    • Source:
      Publisher: British Psychological Society Country of Publication: England NLM ID: 0370640 Publication Model: Print Cited Medium: Print ISSN: 0007-1129 (Print) Linking ISSN: 00071129 NLM ISO Abbreviation: Br J Med Psychol Subsets: MEDLINE
    • Publication Information:
      Publication: Letchworth Eng : British Psychological Society
      Original Publication: London [etc.]
    • Subject Terms:
      Child Abuse, Sexual/*psychology ; Dissociative Disorders/*psychology ; Self-Injurious Behavior/*psychology; Adult ; Child ; Female ; Humans ; Middle Aged ; Pilot Projects ; Self Concept
    • Abstract:
      Objective: Childhood trauma is known to be an important antecedent in those who engage in deliberate self-harm (DSH). We aimed to explore the mediating mechanisms between childhood trauma and subsequent DSH in a sample of women detained in a high secure setting.
      Method: From a previous incidence study into DSH, we subdivided a group of 50 women as follows: non-harmers (N = 13), infrequent harmers (N = 22) and frequent harmers (N = 15). These three groups were then compared on several measures believed to be associated with DSH.
      Results: The frequency of DSH was related to low self-esteem, increased dissociation, anger (both inwardly and outwardly directed), impulsivity, and a history of sexual and physical abuse. When these variables were entered into a path analytic model exploring the relationship between childhood trauma and subsequent DSH, two paths emerged: one major path which linked childhood sexual abuse to DSH via increased dissociation and another, more minor association, linking childhood sexual abuse via reduced self-esteem.
      Conclusion: This study shows a strong association between high levels of dissociation and an increased frequency of self-harming behaviour. This association is theoretically plausible and has therapeutic implications.
    • Publication Date:
      Date Created: 20000630 Date Completed: 20001101 Latest Revision: 20190915
    • Publication Date:
      20240627
    • Accession Number:
      10.1348/000711200160363
    • Accession Number:
      10874484