Hopelessness, Demoralization and Suicidal Behaviour: the Backdrop to Welfare Reform in Australia

This study sought to estimate rates of suicide ideation & attempts, & psychological characteristics of demoralization among Australian income support recipients. Data from the 1997 National Survey of Mental Health & Wellbeing were analysed using sequential logistic regression models. 3 groups, unemployed, lone mothers, & disability payment recipients, reported significantly higher levels on all pscyhological measures related to demoralization than nonrecipients. A similar pattern was demonstrated for measures of suicide ideation & reported suicide attempts. The elevated rates of suicidal behaviour & demoralization in this population were in part explained by sociodemographic characteristics. (46 refs.)