A multivariate study of predictors of repeat parasuicide

To identify variables which differentiate future repeaters of parasuicide from non-repeaters in a multivariate analysis.

Interviews were conducted with 507 parasuicide cases; data were collected on precipitating factors for the index parasuicide, psychiatric and medical history, stressful life events, prior history of parasuicide, hopelessness, anger, self-esteem and social adjustment. Individuals were followed for 1-2 years to determine if a repeat parasuicide occurred.

A logistic regression model identified four significant predictors of repeat parasuicide: prior history of parasuicide, a history of depression, a history of schizophrenia and poor physical health. A risk factor scale constructed from these four variables showed that the risk of repeat parasuicide increases as the number of risk factors increases.

This study identifies four key predictors of repeat parasuicide, and provides evidence that the risk of repeat parasuicide increases when multiple risk factors are present.