Patients with anorexia nervosa who self-injure: a phenomenological study.

PURPOSE: This study investigates self-injury from the perspective of patients with anorexia nervosa.

DESIGN AND

METHODS

A phenomenological design was used. Twelve patients participated. Data were collected using a semi-structured interview guide.

FINDINGS: Participants display self-injurious behavior predominantly in situations when they are forced to eat. They are terrified of gaining weight and use self-injurious behavior to cope with their anxiety. Self-injury is envisioned as a technique to regain control of their own eating pattern without bothering anyone. They feel shame for not controlling their emotions more constructively.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: Healthcare professionals should systematically observe signals and explore less harmful strategies that help to regulate overwhelming feelings.