Factorial structure of the aftermath of suicide instrument

Initial factor-analytic studies of the Aftermath of Suicide Instrument suggested that there may be four broad areas of social reaction to suicide. In a replication study, this 25-item questionnaire was administered to a community sample of 54 persons aged between 21 and 77 years. Factor analysis of their responses identified five factors, but only one of these was similar to any of the original factors. This marked variation is probably due to differences in the population sampled, with the present group of respondents more heterogeneous. While the content of the Aftermath of Suicide Instrument remains valid, it appears that its factorial structure requires further clarification. This is consistent with the emotional and clinical complexities of the subject of suicide.