The Editor, Sir:

The recent discussion on the radio of young people inflicting themselves with cuts and shedding blood thereby was seen as due to depression. Surely, these teenagers are searching for something and seeking to discover self and meaning to life. The blanket reason for their action cannot be sheer depression, as others claim it to be demonic.

The discussion would have been strengthened if the young people involved had been interviewed to discover why they had done this. What or who led them to attempt this exercise as an attempt to address their needs? It is certainly not too late for this to be done by those nearest them and those who have their confidence.

Two reasons

I suggest there are two reasons why it might be done. One is religious, the idea coming from such groups in the society, or by the Internet, or knowledge of some religion or race. The practice of some religious persons is to mutilate the flesh and control the body's needs and impulses to ensure spiritual and religious growth.

Two, it could be a solemn covenant between two persons in a committed relationship.

Many years ago, a couple who had resided in Africa, came to me to be married. They requested of me the 'Queen's marriage'. They claimed to have married themselves by cutting themselves, using the blood to write their names on paper, thereby pledging to be man and wife for life. Now that they had come back to their homeland, the culture required the 'Queen's marriage'. After everything was accomplished, they came to see me elsewhere and expressed gratitude for what had been done.

Were our youngsters influenced by any of these modes? I would welcome any help here.

I am, etc.,

R.A. Young

grupyoung@cwjamaica.com