Suicide (From Crisis Intervention in Criminal Justice/Social Service, Fourth Edition, P 268-301, 2006, James E. Hendricks, Bryan D. Byers, eds., -- See NCJ-215593)

• NCJ Number: 215602
• Author(s): Richard D. Clark
• Date Published: 2006
• Length: 34 pages
• Sale Source: Charles C. Thomas
• Publication Format: Book Chapter
• Publication Type: Curriculum
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This chapter provides an overview of suicide, focusing on its risk factors, prevention, and intervention.

Abstract

Suicide is the eighth leading cause of death in the United States and has garnered a great deal of research attention on its causes and treatment. The study of suicide and its intervention is complex, yet researchers have been able to point to several commonalities of suicide, which are discussed followed by an exploration of the models and correlates of suicide and suicide ideation. Risk factors for suicide include social and demographic factors, such as sex and age, as well as psychological factors, including depression, substance abuse, and mental disorders. The suicide prevention movement began picking up steam in the early 1970s and has generally taken three approaches: (1) primary prevention; (2) secondary prevention; and (3) tertiary prevention. Suicide prevention in school settings is considered followed by a description of the five-step model for suicide crisis intervention, which includes the steps of: (1) establishing a rapport: (2) exploring client perceptions; (3) helping the client focus on important issues; (4) developing options and a plan of action; and (5) terminating the treatment relationship by making referrals and offering other resources. The phenomenon of suicide in jails and prisons is explored, with a focus on factors influencing suicide in criminal justice confinement and its prevention and intervention. The author next moves to a discussion of the greater propensity for suicidal behavior among police officers and considers the role of occupational stress in police officer suicidal ideation. Suicide risk assessment for all populations is described which should include a consideration of the subject’s possible psychiatric diagnosis, biological and family history, psychological and personality factors, and their social, financial, and cultural situation. The effectiveness of suicide intervention and treatment programming is explored before the author concludes with a discussion of suicide bereavement. Chapter discussion questions, simulated exercises, and Internet resources are included. Appendix, references