A strengths-based Perspective in Working with an Adolescent with Self-cutting Behaviors was an interesting article highlighting the benefits of utilizing a strengths-based perspective for adolescents who engage in self-cutting behaviors and critiques other interventions, labels, and diagnoses. I appreciated the emphasis on understanding the function and reasoning behind self-injurious behaviors and discussing the potential harm that could result from the mishandling of these behaviors by caregivers. I also appreciated the criticism of the medicalized model diagnoses like Borderline Personality Disorder within the context of Carol's case study. In this instance, Carol described negative reactions and feelings resulting from her Borderline diagnosis. However, when asked about the reasoning for engaging in cutting, she stated that the quickest way she knew to relieve her feelings of emptiness and depersonalization was through her experiences cutting.
This reading led me to think about providers defining behaviors as maladaptive without understanding the function of these behaviors. Suppose we are utilizing an ecological systems approach. In that case, we will consider factors such as her relationship with her family, which influenced her self-image and relationship with perceived or actual authority figures. I think it is also important to consider a broader cultural context; How does Carol living in Hong Kong impact her? Carol described how the physical sensations of feeling pain and seeing blood allowed her to feel like 'an integrated person', and continue to be utilized as 'powerful tools' to empower her against oppression, control, or abuse of her. While individuals who engage in these coping mechanisms are viewed as 'crazy' or taboo, it is important to recognize the role they play for individuals in addition to working towards safer and non-injurious coping mechanisms.