Psychiatria pre prax 2/2013

Causes of self-mutilation of psychiatric patients in the conditions of imprisonment

Self-mutilation in prison represent a specific group activities, which can be seen as a symptom of mental illness or as a separate group of impulsive disorder. In the clinical picture of psychiatric disorders, self-mutilation have different pathogenesis, as well as the form and implications. Further describe specific conditions in the prison environment completes the comprehensive view of the self-mutilation by imprisoned persons and also offers an explanation of the higher frequency of occurrence and recidivism of self-mutilation in compared with civil psychiatric facilities. Identify the causes of the self-mutilation may also help to capture self-mutilation risk in time and minimalize disruption of physical integrity.

Keywords: self-harm, self-mutilation, psychiatric disorders, prison enviroment.