Head banging as a form of self-harm among inpatients within forensic mental health and intellectual disability services

Abstract

Introduction

“Head banging” is a common form of self-harm, linked to numerous negative outcomes including significant brain damage. However, little research has investigated the prevalence and correlates of head banging behaviour in clinical populations.

Method

Head banging episodes were identified from the incident records (n = 5417) of two inpatient forensic services (one intellectual disability and one mental health), using relevant search terms. Rates were compared between individual patients, by gender, diagnosis and level of security. Incident accounts were analysed qualitatively using thematic analysis.

Results

Two hundred and twenty nine incidents of head banging were recorded, occurring approximately every three days in each service. The prevalence of the behaviour between individual patients varied widely, ranging from one to 38 incidents within one year. Women and patients with intellectual disability appeared more likely to engage in head banging. Qualitative incident reports indicated that head banging was associated with mental distress, anger, and psychotic experiences.

Discussion

Head banging occurs frequently in forensic services, and has documented associations with traumatic brain injury in affected individuals, thus negatively impacting progress through the care pathway and treatment outcomes. Further research should investigate short and long term management strategies and treatment approaches, in order to minimise harm.

Disclosure of interest

The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.