Introduction to Suicidal Behavior (IN: Cognitive Therapy of Suicidal Behavior: a Manual for Treatment, by A Freeman & M A Reinecke)

This chapter is an introduction to suicidal behavior. These behaviours are discussed from the following perspectives: genetic & biochemical; sociological, psychoanalytic psychology; religious; & behavioural. 16 factors which may increase an individual’s vulnerability to suicidal thoughts are outlined, e.g. poor impulse control. Types of suicidal behaviour are discussed within 4 broad categories: hopeless suiciders, histrionic or impulsive suiciders, psychotic suiciders, & rational suiciders.