Prediction of Lethality in Suicide Attempts: Gender Matters. (November 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Choo, Carol C.; Harris, Keith M.; Ho, Roger C.
• Is Part Of: Omega. Volume 80:Number 1(2019)
• Page Start: 87
• Page End: 103
• Publication Date: 2019-11
• Subjects: lethality -- gender -- suicide attempts -- rescue -- suicide intent; Death -- Psychological aspects -- Periodicals; Bereavement -- Psychological aspects -- Periodicals; Death -- Social aspects -- Periodicals; Suicide -- Periodicals; 306.9
• DOI: 10.1177/0030222817725182
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0030-2228

Abstract

This study explores gender differences in lethality of suicide attempts. Three years of medical records related to suicide attempters ( N = 666) were subjected to analysis. Of the sample, 69.2% were female, 30.8% male; 63.8% Chinese, 15.8% Indian, and 15.0 % Malay. Ages ranged from 10 to 85 years old ( M = 29.7, SD = 16.1). More males than females made attempts with high perceived lethality (χ 2 = 12.10, p < .0001) and high medical lethality (χ 2 = 10.59, p < .0001). Available variables were subjected to regression analyses. The regression models predicted more than 60% of high medical lethality suicide attempts and more than 80% of high perceived lethality attempts. Suicide intent and opportunity for rescue were significant predictors for both measures of lethality. Gender differences were examined. Findings were discussed in regard to implications in suicide assessments and interventions.