Prison Inmate Characteristics and Suicide Attempt Lethality: an Exploratory Study

This exploratory study applied a continuous rating scale of suicide attempt lethality to incidents where an inmate survived a suicide attempt. It describes the attempt incident dynamics & resulting range of lethality scores found within the study sample. It also examines the inmate adjustment & mental health characteristics that were associated with the lethality rating. Preliminary findings suggest that increases in suicide attempt lethality are associated with the presence of Axis II disorders, favourable staff interactions, & the decreased use of drugs other than marijuana, alcohol, cocaine, or depressants. Research to replicate the results is called for & recommendations for clinical practice are considered. (58 refs.) JA