Self-Harm in Forensic Settings

Self-harm refers to intentional acts of self-injury, regardless of suicidal or non-suicidal intent. This behaviour is a significant and growing concern within forensic settings, such as prisons and secure hospitals. Individuals in these environments often present with complex and severe mental health problems, alongside histories of trauma, which may increase the risk of self-harm. In addition to individual-level vulnerabilities, the closed and restrictive nature of forensic institutions can further heighten distress. Factors such as social isolation, lack of autonomy, restrictive practice, institutionalisation, and stigma, may further contribute to self-harming behaviour. These dynamics highlight the critical need for research that accounts for both personal and structural determinants of harm in forensic contexts in order to inform the development of effective prevention and intervention strategies.

This Research Topic aims to explore the multifaceted nature of self-harm in forensic settings. We are particularly interested in how self-harm is experienced by individuals within these environments, and how institutional mechanisms interact with psychological, social and historical factors to influence both risk and resilience to self-harm. Incorporating the voices of people with lived experience is important in this aim. Individuals with lived experience can offer valuable and unique insights on the drivers and functions of self-harm, as well as the impact of prevention and management strategies within forensic settings. Therefore, we encourage research that includes the perspective of those with lived experience, as well as co-produced studies. Such contributions are essential for challenging assumptions, gaining important perspectives and informing humane and effective responses within forensic environments.

We are especially interested in advancing knowledge on:
- The impact of institutional mechanisms within forensic settings (e.g., prisons, forensic mental health services) and how these interact with individual vulnerabilities to increase risk of self-harm
- How self-harming behaviour is experienced and may evolve over time within forensic settings
- Trauma-informed and culturally sensitive approaches to care
- The lived experience and perspectives of affected individuals, including co-produced research
- The challenges faced by staff in assessing, managing and responding to self-harm among individuals within forensic settings
- The impact of institutional policies, interventions and management strategies on individuals who have self-harmed within forensic settings