Recognition of Suicide Lethality and Attitudes toward Suicide in Mental Health Professionals

Abstract

The relationship between knowledge about suicide lethality and attitudes toward suicide was explored in a sample of 280 mental health professionals representing eight groups: physicians, psychiatrists, clinical psychologists, psychiatric nurses, social workers, crisis interventionists, counselors, and clergy. The results indicated significant group differences, with psychiatrists, psychologists, and crisis interventionists showing a significantly greater degree of knowledge; clergy scored lowest of all groups. Knowledge was related to attitudes such that those who recognize a greater number of signs of suicide tend to view suicide as acceptable and as a reaction to external environmental aspects rather than as a reflection of manipulation or a self-destructive drive; they believe the elderly and those who are “different” have a greater suicide risk and see suicide as a cry for help.