ABSTRACT

Self-injury is not uncommon among individuals with eating disorders, and significant numbers engage in self-injurious or suicidal behavior (Lacey, 1993). In this chapter, we will describe the complex relationship between eating disorders and self-injury as well as definitions and conceptualizations of self-injury as they relate to eating disorders. We will also discuss comorbidity and prevalence of such behaviors among patients with eating disorders and theories relating to the function of selfinjury. Finally, we will describe the use of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) strategies to manage self-injurious behavior in individuals with eating disorders.