Parasuicide: the Value of Suicidal Intent and Various Motives as Predictors of Future Suicidal Behaviour

This study examined whether various aspects of suicidal intent or motive for an index attempt could predict nonfatal or fatal repetition of suicidal behaviour. 776 parasuicide patients from 5 Nordic regions were followed for 1 year. A low level of suicidal intent predicted nonfatal repetition. The motive, “make things easier for someone” differentiated female repeaters from male repeaters. The report of an unclear motive was the only significant predictor of fatal repetition. (27 refs.)