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Aboriginal suicides in custody: a view from the Kimberley
1Institute of Psychiatry, New South Wales.
The Australian and New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry
|September 1, 1988
Summary
Aboriginal deaths in custody, particularly suicides, are a growing concern. This study examines international data and local findings to inform urgent policy changes regarding Indigenous Australians in detention.
Area of Science:
- Criminology
- Public Health
- Indigenous Studies
Background:
- Aboriginal deaths in custody are a significant national and international issue.
- Suicide rates are increasing among Indigenous Australians in detention.
- There is a need for evidence-based policy to address this crisis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the international literature on deaths in custody.
- To analyze Aboriginal suicide data from the Kimberley region.
- To report findings from a survey of prisoners in Broome police cells.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of deaths in custody.
- Analysis of regional Aboriginal suicide data.
- Survey of 100 prisoners in police custody.
Main Results:
- The study synthesizes existing research and presents new survey data.
- Findings highlight the complexity of factors contributing to deaths in custody.
- Specific data on suicides in police custody are presented.
Conclusions:
- Urgent policy changes are needed to address Aboriginal deaths in custody.
- Evidence from diverse sources is crucial for informing policy.
- Further research is imperative while awaiting the Muirhead Royal Commission findings.