Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
self-abuse
noun
/ˈsɛlf əˈbjus/
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Definition
The act of harming oneself, either physically or emotionally, as a result of negative thoughts or feelings.
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Examples
- He struggled with self-abuse, using harmful coping mechanisms to deal with his emotions.
- Many people do not understand the reasons behind self-abuse and often judge without knowledge.
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Meaning
Self-abuse refers to behaviors that inflict pain or distress on oneself, often as a way to cope with emotional pain, stress, or low self-esteem.
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Synonyms
- self-harm
- self-injury
- self-maltreatment
- self-destructive behavior