Institutional Child Sexual Abuse and Suicidal Behaviour: Outcomes of a Literature Review, Consultation Meetings and a Qualitative Study

This report has 3 parts: a literature review; outcomes of consultation meetings with survivors of institutional child sexual abuse; & a qualitative study involving specialist support services. There is a lack of studies addressing the relationship between institutional child sexual abuse, suicidal behaviour, & related mental health difficulties, as well as protective factors. The qualitative study found alcohol &/or drug abuse & social isolation are major factors associated with suicidal behaviour in this population. Relationships, children, & education were major protective factors identified by the specialist support services. The report concludes with a number of recommendations.