Nonfatal Suicide-Related Behavior Among Inmates: Testing for Gender and Type Differences

Suicide-related behaviour is significantly more prevalent among female than among male inmates, although suicide risk is higher among the latter. When instrumental behaviour is excluded & only suicidal acts considered, rates for the 2 groups are more comparable. Compared with other female inmates, those with suicide-related behaviour are more suicidal, hostile, & impulsive & more likely to have been previously victimized & to be diagnosed with Axis I & II disorders. Women with instrumental behaviour are not significantly different than those with suicidal acts, except their behaviour provides significantly greater tension release. (61 refs.)