YouTube Videos Spark Concerns About Teenage Cutting and Self-Harming

Researchers are concerned about a recent YouTube phenomenon: YouTube videos that depict teenage cutting, self-mutilation, and other acts of self-harm. Some of these videos also recite poetry about pain, loneliness, and isolation.

According to a Canadian study, 100 of the most popular videos depicting self-harm have received more than 2 million views and have been "favorited" over 12,000 times (as reported by ABC News).

Researchers are concerned that just watching these YouTube videos could reinforce self-harm. As the lead researcher explained, "It might foster communities where self-injury is more normal and [so is to] not always urge people to seek help."

According to studies, somewhere between 17 and 40 percent of college students and 15 to 30 percent of high school students admit to cutting or other forms of self-harm.

YouTube Cutting Videos: Effects on Teenage Viewers

The effect that Internet media like YouTube have on teenage cutting is unclear. As one medical researcher pointed out:

"It's hard to tell what role these videos and websites might play. Depending on the nature of the video it could be incredibly helpful ... [by] providing support and directing people to help, or they might glorify the practice and overlook the downsides. Honestly, I think that's the problem with the Internet [with things like this] -- it can be both."

And very few of these videos actually promote self-mutilation or self-harm. According to US News and World Report, only about 7 percent of these videos actively encouraged cutting. According to the study, about 42 percent were neutral, 26 percent discouraged self-injury and 23 percent had a mixed message.

In fact, many of these videos talked about the dangers of cutting, depression, and suicide. Some of these videos offered resources for teenagers who were seeking help.

One researcher argued that it might actually be beneficial for teenagers to watch these videos because it would make them aware of the dangers of cutting. The videos could also provide an opportunity for teenagers and parents to have open discussions about these issues.

Researchers will have to conduct more studies to determine just how these YouTube cutting videos affect the teenage viewers.

Meanwhile, researchers and YouTube are erring on the side of caution. YouTube has removed the videos that they consider inappropriate.

YouTube Cutting Videos: How to Stop Cutting

It is important for those who struggle with cutting and self-harm to seek help. According to KidsHealth.org, it can be extremely difficult to take that first step to recovery, but talking to a parent, teacher, nurse, or someone you trust can go a long way. It will also help identify what's causing the cutting. It could be anything from peer pressure, painful life situations, or feelings of anger or trauma.

As one writer at Christianity Today points out, cutting often becomes an addiction. That's why it's important to not go it alone and don't stop looking until you get the help that you need.