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A Strengths Perspective in Working with an Adolescent with Self-cutting Behaviors

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Abstract

This paper describes the use of a strengths perspective in working with an adolescent with self-cutting behavior. While a disease model stresses diagnosis, labeling, medication, control, and manipulation; a strengths perspective advocates understanding of feelings and meaningfulness behind symptoms, identifying needs, and developing abilities, facilitating interpersonal communication, and building a better social environment for the adolescent client with self-cutting behaviors. A case example demonstrates this approach.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Applied Social Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China

    Kam-shing YIP

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  1. Kam-shing YIP
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Correspondence to Kam-shing YIP.

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Prof. Kam-shing Yip is a Professor, Department of Applied Social Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China.

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YIP, Ks. A Strengths Perspective in Working with an Adolescent with Self-cutting Behaviors. Child Adolesc Soc Work J 23, 134–146 (2006). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10560-005-0043-4

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10560-005-0043-4

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