Year: 2002 Source: Social Science and Medicine, v.54, no.1, (January 2002), p.33-48 SIEC No: 20021062

In Greenland, one of the characterizing features of the sociocultural change of the last 50 years has been an increased prevalence of mental health problems. This article presents data collected from two health interview surveys conducted among Inuit in Greenland & Inuit migrants in Denmark in 1993-94 & 1997-98. The prevalence of potential psychiatric cases & suicidal thoughts were studied in relation to childhood residence & father’s occupation, current residence, & language. Findings include a high prevalence of suicidal thoughts among young people. The authors question the notion that rapid societal development is in itself a cause of poor mental health. (37 refs)