Citation

Pillay AL, Kriel AJ, Moodley SV. J. Child Adolesc. Ment. Health 2007; 19(2): 131-136.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2007, National Inquiry Services Centre, South Africa)

DOI

10.2989/17280580709486648

PMID

25865445

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: Considering the extent of the problem of suicidal behaviour among young people, the need for prevention programmes is paramount. The KwaZulu-Natal based 'Love to Live' campaign is a programme aimed at the prevention of suicidal behaviour among children and adolescents.

METHODS: The present study is an analysis of 63 essays written by secondary school learners on the subject of suicide prevention.

RESULTS: Just over two-thirds of the essays revealed reasonable knowledge without serious inaccuracies, with over half the sample citing conflict with parents as precipitants to suicidal behaviour. Over one-third of the essays blamed suicidal persons for being ineffective in dealing with their life problems, and over one-third identified mental health workers and parents as sources of help.

CONCLUSIONS: The results are discussed in terms of adolescents' views of suicidal behaviour, as well as within the context of the limitations of the study methodology.

Language: en