Why would an adult resort to banging their own head and/or hitting them self? Called a temper tantrum as a child, but when faced w/a lot of stress,anxiety,etc.Apparently it isn't done for "attention",I have seen this happen and it doesn't even make sense as the person normally seems OK. Also, when it does occur, this person seems to get embarrassed and wants to be alone.
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Answers
Head banging is considered a stress reliever, even after all of the possible injurious things that could happen. Yes, the person is not doing it for attention from anyone else.
It is more of a habit from the childhood, and/or is likely due to heavy amounts of stress and/or abuse from that persons childhood or even adulthood.
Here is one link: http://ezinearticles.com/?The-Head-Banging-Syndrome-Stop-Bad-Habits&id=517223
Headbanging is part of the Rhythmic Movement Disorder, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rhythmic_Movement_Disorder
While the next link will not apply entirely, (it is about children) please read the parts about attention located at: http://www.drgreene.com/21_1104.html
Also, this is another link about children, but please check it out as well: http://www.drgreene.com/21_578.html
It would be advised, as well, to seek help with a doc or T if it has not been done already.
Best of luck!
I agree with Clyde, ;)
In addition, I would like to say that it is a poor coping mechanism, a form of "acting out", or even a type of self-harm when the imposer does it to "punish" himself for doing something he felt was stupid or embarassing.
If the person is approachable about it, maybe you can call their attention to it. (Did you realize you banged your head just now? ) In any event, giving them positive support for what they determined was only worth the self harm, might help counter their poor reaction. Good wishes in this!
drjean
Thank you, I will pass this on and I will bookmark for myself. Thanks.