There is a new thrill going around and it isnít one which is recognizable. It isnít even categorized as a teen thrill, yet some of the teens who engage in the act; seem to talk about it so passionately that you would almost think they are speaking about a new drug theyíve tried.

The art of self-mutilation has become something of a fad among teenagers. Self-hatred may inspire it but the attention the person gains will feed it. Often, parents are the last people to know because the teen will often find ways to self-mutilate in places their parents seldom see.

From their upper legs to their chests, feet and other areas typically covered by clothing, the self-mutilation process may begin initially as small cuts in various inconspicuous spots and gradually lead to larger cuts and gashes. Once the teen canít conceal the cuts any longer, theyíll begin to wear long sleeves and extra clothing to cover up the damage theyíve inflicted on their own skin.

If your child begins engaging in self-mutilation, you should immediately take them to a medical professional because they need help immediately. Not only are they prone to infections but remember, most teens have no idea where the most delicate points on their body are so a cut to the wrong area could easily cause a bleed which could ultimately end their life.

While self-mutilation isnít understood as completely as many in the medical field would have one think, one thing is certain. It is profoundly rampant among teens in this generation. It is also very dangerous and appears to attract young girls more than teen boys. It is something which is indicative of self-hate but also noted in young teen girls who just want to be accepted but because they arenít, will settle for the negative attention. It is a dangerous new way to self-destruct.