NCJ Number
90385
Journal
Federal Probation Volume: 46 Issue: 2 Dated: (June 1983) Pages: 65-69
Date Published
1983
Length
5 pages
Annotation
An analysis of inmate suicides, attempted suicides, and self-destructive behavior at a Federal correctional institution for short-term offenders found that an alternative to standard razor blades for all inmates at the facility and better screening at intake could prevent most incidents.
Abstract
The facility has a total of 361 injuries reported since it opened 18 months ago. There was 1 successful suicide and 44 attempts, which together accounted for nearly 13 percent of all reported injuries. A large number of self-inflicted wounds occurred from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. and from 10 p.m. to 1 a.m. A comparison of the suicidal group with the general inmate population found the suicidal group with an overrepresentation of single persons, and a comparatively high number of suicidal inmates charged with threats on the life of the President and with threats to destroy Government property. More inmates made suicidal gestures on the day they were admitted than on any other day. A full third of self-mutilations occurred within the first week of imprisonment. An effective intervention strategy should include placing suicidal inmates in a dormitory situation rather than in isolated quarters, as is often done. In addition, correctional staff need to be made aware of the signs of suicide and prevention measures. Three tables and 21 references are supplied.