Citation

Liebling A. Death Stud. 1993; 17(5): 381-407.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1993, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/07481189308253385

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Suicides in prison have been increasing at a rate that is faster than the rate of increase in the size of the prison population. The causes of this increase, and the particular nature of the prison suicide problem, have been poorly understood in previous studies. Most of these studies have been based on recorded information alone. Talking openly and systematically to prisoners and staff involved in suicide attempts in prison provides new and important insights into the development of suicidal feelings in custody. A group of young prisoners who show a marked vulnerability to suicide and suicide attempts can be differentiated from the general young prisoner population by the extent of the background deprivation they report, and by their inability to cope with or make any constructive use of their sentence. It is shown that the most vulnerable inmates can often be found in the worst situations, many having no job or activity in prison, and receiving very little contact from their families. They make few friends, experience more difficulties with other inmates, and describe the prison experience as particularly distressing. It is the combined effects of hopelessness, their histories, their current situation, and their inability to generate any solution to their problems that propel the young prisoner toward suicide. Situational triggers may be decisive in a suicide attempt at different thresholds, depending on the prisoner's vulnerability and the level of stress he or she experiences. Young prisoner suicide is much less of a psychiatric problem than is commonly supposed: It is also a problem of coping. The research summarized in this article raises wider questions concerning the ethos and regimes of establishments and their suicide prevention strategies.

Language: en