Abstract
Objective: To identify causal factors in adolescents that encourage an increase in cases of self-injury. Methods: This was an integrative literature review, qualitative and descriptive. 40 bibliographies from the Scientific Electronic Library Online (Scielo), PUBMED, Acervo+, Electronic Journals in Psychology (PePSIC) and Semantic Scholar platforms from the last 6 years were selected, with only 15 literatures suitable for review based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results: The main factors involved personal and family aspects, psychiatric disorders, childhood-related and social risks. Furthermore, it identified that psychiatric disorders and inappropriate internet use negatively influence self-injurious behavior. Adolescents who self-mutilate do not have the conscious intention of committing suicide, but rather a way to reduce their suffering, despite the act being a risk factor for this to occur. Final considerations: We sought to know the causes that justify self-mutilation among these young people, which allows for early identification and prevention of the occurrence of new cases. In addition, it is important to break the taboo on self-mutilation among young people, informing education professionals to fight neglect in relation to this topic.