NCJ Number
108819
Journal
International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology Volume: 31 Issue: 3 Dated: (December 1987) Pages: 227-235
Date Published
1987
Length
8 pages
Annotation
A group of detained Scottish young offenders were assessed shortly after being placed on strict suicidal observation.
Abstract
Suicidal intent and medical lethality were, in most cases, particularly low. Methods of parasuicide varied, the majority of inmates were verbally threatening suicide or exhibiting minor wrist laceration while a small number adopted cell arson, swallowed objects, or used unpredictable and dangerous methods of feigned hanging. Avoidance of expected inmate confrontation, manipulative intent, and emotional upset were the prime motivators for parasuicidal behavior, psychiatric disturbance playing a minor role. Study findings are discussed in relation to penal setting and parasuicide in the general population. (Author abstract)