“They are just doing it for attention” and “they’re unsuccessfully trying to commit suicide” are the two most common misconceptions people have regarding cutting behaviors, and they are far from true. Cutting stems from unhealthy coping skills in an attempt to manage emotional suffering. Cutting brings these individuals a temporary sense of calm and relief, and is typically followed by feelings of guilt and shame. Cutting behaviors are an outward expression of what an individual is experiencing inwardly and often provides these individuals with a sense of momentary control. There are a number of risk factors that may increase cutting behaviors. Females are at greater risk for cutting behaviors. This does not mean males do not engage in cutting behaviors, it is simply more prominent amongst females. Age is another factor where increased risk is found in the teen and young adult populations. Another risk factor is having friends who cut. High stress such as traumatic life events or an unstable family environment is also another risk factor. Finally, mental disorders are linked with an increased likelihood of cutting behaviors, including depression, eating disorders, and borderline personality disorder. Understanding cutting behaviors is the first step in helping individuals who experience this on a daily basis.
