This study was an exploration and interpretation of the dynamic interplay between self-harming behavior and identity development. Twelve females, aged 18 to 21 with a history of self-harm participated in in-depth interviews and were administered three self-report measures of identity status. The inter-relationships between the following themes were examined: affect regulation, early childhood experiences and parental influences, and identity status. Based on their interview answers, participants were classified into one of the four progressive identity statuses: diffusion, foreclosure, moratorium and achievement. The majority of participants were found to be on the diffuse end of the identity spectrum. Those participants on the diffuse end of this spectrum reported an uncertainty about future goals, feelings of insecurity that impeded the exploration of future goals, and difficulties with the separation process of adolescence. Results indicated that a negative self-image, a poor relationship with at least one caregiver and pathological family environments, including a lack of communication and a history of abuse, contributed to the lack of identity achievement reported by the participants. Possible links among the study's major themes were discussed, including the hypothesis that a negative self-image limits identity exploration, and a lack of appropriate parental modeling contributes to self-harm and impedes a cohesive identity. Implications of the findings for clinicians working with self-harming adolescents include the development of appropriate outlets for emotional expression, and a psycho-educational approach that focuses on self-harming behaviors as well as identity issues such as exposure to and exploration of goals, values and belief systems. Limitations of the study, including the small sample and limited use of the self-report questionnaires, are discussed. While this study suggests an important relationship between self-harm and identity status, the findings need to be elaborated with future research that focuses on further exploration of this relationship.