A Thematic Comparison of Suicide Notes Drawn From Northern Ireland and the United States

This study sought to investigate suicide notes drawn from Northern Ireland & the United States as these countries have broadly similar suicide rates but markedly different cultures. A theoretical-conceptual analysis of 60 suicide notes drawn from these countries was undertaken based on a thematic model of suicide across countries. The results suggested that there were more psychological commonalities than differences. 2 differences emerged which suggested that aspects of the interpersonal components may be more salient in Northern Irish than American suicides. Implications for further research are discussed. (35 refs)