NCJ Number
113000
Date Published
1988
Length
233 pages
Annotation
This training manual provides guidelines and visual aids for activities and presentations designed to equip law enforcement and jail/lockup administrators and staff with a basic understanding of suicidal behavior as it relates to the facility environment and how to prevent it.
Abstract
The 8- to 10-hour curriculum discusses the suicide prevention responsibilities of jails and lockups. An overview of jail suicide research is presented, and ways in which jail and criminal justice environments influence suicidal behavior are discussed, including the effects of isolation, shame of incarceration, and fears. Predisposing factors for suicide are reviewed including alcohol or drug abuse, loss of resources, and mental illness. The first 24 hours of confinement, holidays, night, and major case processing points are identified as high-risk suicide periods. Situational risk factors, including recent or current stressors, also are considered; signs and symptoms of suicidal behavior are delineated. The role of arresting and investigative officers in suicide prevention also is discussed. Guidelines for assessing suicidal risk are provided, with emphasis on intake screening. Techniques for managing potentially suicidal inmates are provided. Emphasis is placed on the importance of interpersonal interaction and correctional officer characteristics and attitudes in prevention of suicide. Jail design and architectural factors are considered as they relate to suicide prevention. First aid procedures for hanging attempts are presented, and the need for followup support for staff following an inmate suicide is noted. Jail suicide litigation also is reviewed. Supplemental information is appended.