While most recent research has disproved the idea that normal adolescence is characterized by "storm and stress," 10% to 20% of adolescents exhibit severe emotional disturbance. One behavior that expresses this disturbance and is particularly prevalent in adolescents is self-mutilation. An examination of the literature suggested eight differentiable theoretical models addressing why adolescents might engage in selfmutilation: behavioral, systemic, avoidance of suicide, sexual, expression of affect, control of affect, ending depersonalization, and creating boundaries. These models were evaluated by surveying a nationwide sample of psychologists and social workers. Related developmental issues were also investigated. Results indicated that therapists found the expression, control, depersonalization, and boundaries models most useful in understanding and treating selfmutilating adolescents. There was little support for the sexual or suicide models.

No abstract

No abstract

A sample of 125 persons having had multiple sclerosis (MS) for an average of 16.5 years completed a battery of self-report tests assessing current behavioral and emotional functioning and mental health needs. The resulting data contradicted the stereotype many psychologists hold of persons with MS by consistently indicating that most of these persons had adapted successfully to having the disease. Those who had not successfully adapted expressed a need for help with two matters in particular: accepting the reality of the disease and learning how to best live with it. Working successfully with this population may minimally entail (a) operating with the belief that successful positive adjustment is a realistic goal, and (b) responding effectively to the most pressing specific problems presented for treatment.