Predicting repetition of deliberate self‐harm: A review of the literature in the light of a current study

ABSTRACT— Three hundred and sixty‐five patients exhibiting deliberate self‐harm (DSH) were rated for DSH repetition on the six‐item predictive scale of Buglass & Horton and on a five‐point predictive scale developed from a previous study by the author. The Buglass & Horton scale was more sensitive and more specific overall and for female patients, but the five‐point scale predicted better for males, especially those aged under 35. The results are discussed in relation to previous work on the prediction of DSH repetition.