Self-Injury Groups on Facebook

##article.authors##

  • Kendra D. Niwa Act 2 Child and Family Services
  • Michael N. Mandrusiak Adler School of Professional Psychology

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self-harm##common.commaListSeparator## self-injury##common.commaListSeparator## counselling##common.commaListSeparator##

##article.abstract##

The present study examines the interactions within 4 Facebook groups devoted to supporting people who self-injure. Content analysis was used to analyze posts made to the group during the 3-month period of the study to explore the nature of interactions and the frequency of themes. High prevalence themes included responses to verbal abuse against those who self-injure (16.8%), the discussion of personal issues without directly requesting support (11.2%), and offers of direct support to other group members (11.0%). Notable phenomena and implications for treatment are discussed.

##submission.authorBiographies##

  • ##submission.authorWithAffiliation##
    Kendra Niwa graduated from the Adler School of Professional Psychology and is now a Registered Clinical Counsellor at Act 2 Child and Family Services in British Columbia. In the past, her clinical work has been centered on youth in crisis including self-injury and other high-risk behaviours. Her current work is focused on children, adolescents, and families who have undergone trauma.
  • ##submission.authorWithAffiliation##
    Michael Mandrusiak is a Core Faculty member and the Director of Training and Community Service at the Adler School of Professional Psychology, Vancouver campus. He is also a Registered Psychologist practicing in the Greater Vancouver area.

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2012-01-06

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##issue.vol## 46 ##issue.no## 1 (2012)

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Articles/ Articles

##submission.license##

Copyright is retained by the Canadian Journal of Counselling and Psychotherapy.