Citation

Dein S. Psychiatry 2004; 3(8): 21-23.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2004, Medicine Publishing Company Ltd.)

DOI

10.1383/psyt.3.8.21.43397

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Apocalyptic suicide is a rare but significant phenomenon. The terms 'apocalyptic' and 'millennial', are defined followed by a discussion of the relation between cults and mental illness. A number of case studies are presented including Jim Jones, David Koresh, the Order of the Solar Temple, Heaven's Gate and lesser-known groups such as the Concerned Christians and Friends of the Truth Church. The causes of this phenomenon are multiple and include the vulnerabilities if members, the leader's personality, the social pressures exerted on members by the leaders and the response towards the group by outsiders. The groups are characterized by their isolation from outsiders and the loss of autonomy of group members. The relationship between apocalyptic suicide and suicide terrorism is discussed, emphasizing the perceived threat to Islamic values from outsiders (especially the USA) by the suicide terrorists. Other factors relating to suicide terrorism are described, including martyrdom, retaliation, economic rewards and the promise of eternal happiness. © 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Language: en

Keywords

suicide; Islam; terrorism; apocalyptic; millennial; unusual psychiatric syndromes