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Content analysis of previously suicidal college students' experiences.
1Department of Psychology, University of Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg, USA.
Death Studies
|December 8, 1997
Summary
Supportive remarks from family and friends can aid suicidal individuals. Thoughtful communication is key, while simplistic or thoughtless comments can be detrimental to recovery and well-being.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Mental Health Research
- Suicidology
Background:
- Suicidal ideation is a significant public health concern.
- Understanding the impact of social support on suicidal individuals is crucial for intervention.
- Previous research has not fully explored the nuances of helpful and unhelpful communication.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify specific helpful and unhelpful remarks made to suicidal individuals.
- To explore the perceived impact of these remarks on suicidal students.
- To inform the development of communication strategies for supporting those with suicidal thoughts.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative analysis of open-ended responses from 40 previously suicidal students.
- Quantitative assessment using the Suicidal Behaviors Questionnaire (SBQ).
- Comparison of remarks reported by students who confided in others versus those who did not.
Main Results:
- Family, friends, and personal resources were identified as most helpful for survival.
- Helpful remarks were characterized as empathic and thoughtful.
- Unhelpful remarks were perceived as simplistic and thoughtless.
- Participants remained moderately suicidal despite past episodes.
Conclusions:
- The choice of confidant is critical for individuals experiencing suicidal ideation.
- Training programs should emphasize effective communication strategies and provide examples of supportive remarks.
- Further research is needed to develop and evaluate targeted communication interventions.