What is self - injury ?

Gender: It is often assumed that females selfinjure more than males, but it is unclear whether or not this is true. Some studies show that females are more likely to self-injure. Others show that males are just as likely to self-injure as females. There is evidence, however, that males and females differ in their reasons for self-injuring and methods used to self-injure. For example, some research suggests that more males may use self-injury behaviors that lead to self-bruising. They may punch objects or other people with the intention of hurting themselves or use self-battery. In contrast, females are more likely to use better recognized forms of self-injury, such as cutting or scratching.