Communication Deviances and Ego Defensive Organization of Suicide Attempters Adolescents

Deviant thought processes & resultant communication difficulties that appear to characterize suicidal adolescents were studied. 26 adolescent suicide attempters treated at a psychiatric clinic in Lisbon were assessed by clinical interview & projective tests, including the Rorschach & TAT in terms of ego developement & patterns of communication. Results indicated idiosyncratic use of words & logic that interfere with word meanings, closure, attention span difficulties & negative communication.