Suicidal intent/life satisfaction: comparing the life stories of older women

The purpose of this paper is to examine the Maris hypothesis that some people have relevant biographies and life histories that predispose suicidal careers. Using a life history approach, this paper reports differing themes in the lives of two groups of older women recently relocated to a nursing home--those who are satisfied with their lives and those who are not. Twelve women were selected from a sample of 256 by their scores on a life satisfaction index or suicidal intent scale. Seventy-two hours of transcribed life histories were content-analyzed for dominant themes that contributed to either life satisfaction or suicidal intent. Strong overall themes emerged for both groups under the headings of childhood, families, role models, connectedness, confidantes, life involvement, death experience, and memories. However, the most important correlates to contribute to a suicidal career for ideators were dysfunctional families of origin, poor role models, a feeling of isolation, and a pessimistic outlook.