NCJ Number
103014
Date Published
1986
Length
53 pages
Annotation
This four-part series of articles examines the research, standards, and correctional procedures relevant to inmate suicide and its prevention.
Abstract
The most common theme in litigation related to inmate suicides is the liability of correctional staff, supervisors, and elected officials. Plaintiffs in these cases have sometimes received injunctive relief or monetary awards. National professional organizations and most States have developed detention and corrections standards covering staff training, physical plant, security, prisoner supervision, medical services, admission, and classification. A review of the research literature reveals suicide to be a major problem and shows that no particular profile successfully characterizes the inmates at risk. However, authors agree that improved intake screening, staff training, inmate mental health and crisis services, better staff communications, and physical and procedural changes are all needed in correctional facilities. Correctional managers can use the Prisoner Suicide Inventory, a detailed checklist, to examine their operations and provide a basis for change. The inventory suggests the appropriate measures to take in 16 categories of correctional operation. Additional recommendations for suicide prevention are given in each of these categories. Prisoner Suicide Inventory is included.