Citation

Becker K, El-Faddagh M, Schmidt MH. Kindheit und entwicklung 2004; 13(1): 14-25.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2004)

DOI

10.1026/0942-5403.13.1.14

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Advice in the mass media is of utmost importance in suicide prevention with regard to copying suicide methods. The internet, and the opportunities it provides for anonymous exchanges of thoughts poses additional risks for vulnerable adolescents with suicidal ideas. Chatrooms provide a space for adolescents - whether suicidal or interested in suicide - to exchange their thoughts, and may therefore allow risks and fantasies to be reduced, or may possibly increase the desire to commit suicide. Scientific studies are necessary to document internet media effects. Physicians, psychotherapists, and parents should be informed about suicide web pages and chatrooms. Internet-specific media guidelines, internationally valid laws, and suitable online information channels should be established. © Hogrefe-Verlag, Göttingen 2004.

Language: de

Keywords

Internet; Suicide; Adolescents; Chatrooms; Cybersuicide; Risks