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Exploration of factors related to hara-kiri as a method of suicide and suicidal behavior

M Takai1, K Yamamoto, Y Iwamitsu

  • 1Department of Medical Psychology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kitasato University, 1-15-1 Kitasato, Sagamihara-shi, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan.

European Psychiatry : the Journal of the Association of European Psychiatrists
|April 30, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Hara-kiri suicide attempts in Japan are more common among males and those with schizophrenia. Both clinical and cultural factors may influence this method of suicide and suicidal behavior.

Area of Science:

  • Psychiatry
  • Sociology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Suicide remains a significant public health concern in Japan.
  • Understanding specific suicide methods, such as hara-kiri, is crucial for targeted interventions.
  • Previous research has not fully elucidated the factors associated with hara-kiri as a suicide method.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the sociodemographic and clinical factors linked to hara-kiri as a suicide method.
  • To compare characteristics of individuals who used hara-kiri versus other suicide methods.
  • To explore the prevalence of hara-kiri suicide attempts in contemporary Japan.

Main Methods:

  • A retrospective study analyzed 421 patient records from Kitasato University Hospital Emergency Medical Center (January 2006 - March 2008).
  • Patients were categorized based on suicide attempt method (hara-kiri vs. all others).
  • Sociodemographic and clinical features were compared between groups using statistical analyses, including logistic regression.

Main Results:

  • Hara-kiri suicide attempts showed a higher proportion of males (63%).
  • Significant age differences were observed between hara-kiri and other suicide attempt methods.
  • Multiple logistic regression identified male gender, schizophrenia diagnosis, survival, and being married as factors associated with hara-kiri attempts.

Conclusions:

  • Hara-kiri persists as a notable method of suicide and suicidal behavior in Japan.
  • The findings suggest a complex interplay of clinical and cultural factors influencing the choice of hara-kiri.
  • Further research is warranted to develop culturally sensitive suicide prevention strategies.
Abstract

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