This book looks at the dangerous behavior known as self-mutilation or self-injury that includes cutting, burning, and hair pulling. Self-injurers hurt themselves as a cry for help, as a form of self-punishment, and as an outlet for releasing their frustrations. Fascinating and straightforward, this book sheds light on behavior that usually begins in the teen years, affects two million Americans, and is often excluded from public discussions. With profiles on the typical self-injurer and advice on where to go for help, the author provides insights into the reasons why somebody would feel the need to harm his or her own body. This book provides hope and the comfort that the behavior is not abnormal, just destructive. With discussions on famous self-injurers and the differences between female and male self-injurers, this book serves both research and coping purposes.