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

Relationship between knowledge about suicide lethality & attitudes toward suicide was explored in a sample (n=280) of mental health professionals representing 8 different professional categories. Results indicated psychiatrists, psychologists, & crisis interventionists had a greater degree of knowledge; clergy scored lowest. Those who recognized a greater # of signs & symptoms viewed suicide as a reaction to external factors rather than as a reflection of manipulation or self destructive drive.