Self-Injury

July 1, 2018

Gr 8 Up-These basic guides emphasize the importance of young adults taking charge of their health. In Sexually Transmitted Diseases, Quinn, a certified nurse midwife and nurse practitioner, provides a brief overview of five common misconceptions, then offers straightforward, nonjudgmental answers to 51 questions ("Are STDs preventable?"), divided into four broad categories. Supplementing the text are five short case studies and a directory of resources. In Self-Injury, clinical psychologist and blogger Vitelli adopts a similar format and provides the same level of trustworthy content ("Is self-harm linked to trauma?"). The books lack illustrations and graphics and feature somewhat dated print resources. However, both volumes are noteworthy for how they convey material. VERDICT Solid additions for secondary library collections.-Jeanette Lambert, formerly at Nashville-Davidson County Schools, TN

Copyright 2018 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

September 15, 2018

Greenwood's "Q&A Health Guides" series addresses myths, pose and answer 50 questions, and conclude with five case studies and resources. Certified nurse midwife and women's health nurse practitioner Quinn frankly discusses types of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), symptoms, and prevention factors. Though the work is primarily aimed at YA readers, the Center for Disease Control notes a rising rate of STDs in the over-45 population, giving this one a broader audience. Clinical psychologist Vitelli's examination of self-harm, primarily cutting but also hair pulling, head banging, and more, is ideal for parents and younger readers alike. Though information occasionally conflicts, overall the book is supportive and easy to navigate. VERDICT Full of helpful resources, these titles will likely see quiet use on shelves or when fronted in displays.

Copyright 2018 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

August 1, 2018
Self-harm?or injury by cutting, scratching, burning, or other means?is a topic that has come into the spotlight as a health issue and gets the Greenwood Q&A Health Guides treatment. Although most common among adolescents, self-harm can occur at any age. This brief overview by a clinical psychologist examines all facets of the issue. The author discusses the affected populations, the reasons for the behavior, the causes and risk factors, and the cultural aspects as well as assessment, treatment, prevention, and recovery. Case studies, a glossary, and a resource list provide further information. This is a useful resource for school, public, and consumer-health libraries.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2018, American Library Association.)