Year: 2008 Source: Crisis, v.29, no.1, (2008), p.11-19 SIEC No: 20090237

This paper uses data from 4 large studies to compare the effects of exposure to fatal & nonfatal suicidal behaviour in family members & nonfamilial associates on the subsequent suicidal behaviour of male & female respondents of different ages. Across all studies, it was found that prior suicidal behaviours among respondents’ social groups were more important predictors of suicidal behaviour in the respondents themselves than previous research had indicated. The potential impact of “containment” of information regarding suicidal behaviours as a prevention initiative is discussed, in light of information behaviour principles of social marketing. (56 refs.)