NCJ Number
103861
Journal
Corrective and Social Psychiatry and Journal of Behavior Technology Methods and Therapy Volume: 32 Issue: 3 Dated: (July 1986) Pages: 95-98
Date Published
1986
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This retrospective study identified a number of personal variables and precipitating factors thought to contribute to the suicidal thinking or behavior of a sample of 87 suicidal Alaskan prisoners.
Abstract
All suicidal cases brought to the attention of the Forensic Services Team of the Alaska Psychiatric Institute (Anchorage, Alaska) since July 1, 1983, were evaluated with respect to diagnosis, precipitating factors leading to suicidal activity, crime committed, therapeutic interventions used, and consequences of these interventions. The institute's research includes the training and supervision of correctional staff in suicide detection and prevention. The most common diagnosis was adjustment disorders with mixed disturbance of conduct and depressed mood (83 percent), followed by involvement with drugs and alcohol (55 percent), and borderline personality disorders (37 percent). Precipitating factors were a sense of shame from being convicted and the stresses of prison life. Sex offenders comprised 65 percent of this high-risk group. Suicide prevention methods included behavorial contracts, cell status changes, peer counselors, psychotherapy, and rarely, medication. No successful suicides occurred during the 9-month period (July 1, 1983 - April 4, 1984) serviced by the Forensic Services Team. 3 notes and 6 references.