Suicide attempts and gender heteronormativity: A cross-sectional study in Cuba

Background: Prior studies have consistently shown that attempts by males tend to be more lethal, and their suicide rates higher than those of females. Although men are more likely to die by suicide, women are much more likely to attempt suicide. Suicide is a gendered problem. As a result, suicide prevention also depends on recognising that risk factors for suicide may affect men and women differently. Objective: Explore the way in which heteronormative gender practices and discourses are related to suicide attempts in Cuba. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study, conducted between October 5 and November 2, 2017 with 2 males and 2 females in an age range between 46 and 77 years. Two categories were used todesign and analyze the in-depth  semi-structured interviews: social institutions and social reproduction. The content analysis included the way in which these institutions and forms of social reproduction constitute a risk or protection for suicide attempts. Results: Heteronormative discourses/practices differentially value physical and moral qualities, attitudes and behaviors of male and female. Within a heteronormative construction of gender in Cuba, some institutions might be a risk for suicide attempts through the frustration of meaning needs, and the normalization of gendered self-demand. Conclusion: Suicide attempts is a gendered issue. The suicide attempt can be both an attempt to die or an expression of context engagement and the desire to live, but in other way.