Can the Epidemiology of Suicide be Considered Epidemiological Research? (IN: Research Suicide, Proceedings of the Seminars of Suicide Research, by Yrjo Johansson Foundation, 1974-1977)

Using a theoretical set of correlations between intent & self-destructive behavior, the author demonstrates that valid & reliable data concerning the subject variables cannot be found by means of epidemiologic investigation. He suggests therefore that epidemiologic investigation of suicide be used as an evaluative research tool to examine the functioning of a system (i.e., suicide prevention or crisis centres) with a view to its improvement & further development. (NBB)