Introduction (IN: Assessment, Treatment, and Prevention of Suicidal Behavior, edited by R I Yufit & D Lester)

This introductory chapter outlines the content of the three sections of this book. In Part One, empirically based assessment techniques that measure important mood states, personality traits, & attitudes associated with suicidal behaviour are examined. Part Two compares several different approaches for conducting psychotherapy with suicidal clients. The final section presents issues of special relevance today – the role counsellors & psychotherapists might play in helping a suicidal client come to a decision & in helping significant others come to terms with the decision; suicide prevention in schools, intervention with suicidal college students; & suicide terrorism.