Indirect Self-Destructive Behavior in the Elderly Nursing Home Patient

Incidence of indirect self-destructive behavior was explored in a sample of 99 male predominantly elderly nursing home patients using a rating scale previously developed by these authors. It was found that the use of ISDB was associated with direct suicide potential, dissatisfaction with the treatment program & with life in general, confused reasoning & judgement, poor prognosis for discharge, absence of religious commitment & significant losses in the patient’s life.(LN)