Correctional suicide prevention in the year 2000 and beyond

Area of Science:

• Criminology
• Public Health
• Correctional Healthcare

Background:

• Historically, suicide in correctional facilities (jails and prisons) has been overlooked.
• Significant progress in understanding and addressing this issue has emerged over recent decades, largely driven by legal actions and litigation.
• This has spurred advancements in research, intervention programs, and policy development within correctional settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a concise overview of the advancements in correctional suicide prevention.
• To highlight key areas for future development in the new millennium.
• To emphasize the importance of specific research and policy initiatives for the field's progress.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of progress in research, programming, and policy related to correctional suicide.
• Analysis of historical trends and the impact of litigation.
• Identification of critical areas for future advancement.

Main Results:

• Substantial insights into correctional suicide have been gained, moving beyond historical neglect.
• Litigation has been a primary catalyst for research, programming, and policy improvements.
• The new millennium presents significant opportunities for further growth in suicide prevention efforts.

Conclusions:

• Continued growth in correctional suicide prevention is anticipated.
• Process research, improved risk assessment strategies, and changes in public and penological policy are crucial for advancing the field.
• A multi-faceted approach is vital for effective suicide prevention in correctional environments.