Parasuicidal Behaviour in a Forensic-Psychiatric Population

Allan, Karen M (1999) Parasuicidal Behaviour in a Forensic-Psychiatric Population. D Clin Psy thesis, University of Glasgow.

Abstract

Purpose - The purpose of this review was to examine various fectors associated with parasuicide in a forensic-psychiatric population. The factors of interest were background variables, motivations, and psychological factors (problem solving ability). Method - Studies concerning the target fectors were reviewed from the forensic- psychiatric literature. However, as very few relevant studies were foimd to have been conducted in this population, the author sought to review studies from other related areas - in forensic, psychiatric and community populations. Findings - A number of background factors were found to be associated with parasuicide in the various populations examined. These included previous psychiatric history, previous forensic history, previous sexual abuse, a diagnosis of personality disorder, alcohol and drug abuse, and age. Various reasons for parasuicidal behaviour were also identified. In some cases, the primary motivation was intent to die, but a number of alternative motives were identified, including symptom relief, psychiatric disturbance, influencing someone and discharging anger. A number of studies outwith the forensic-psychiatric population reviewed indicated that parasuicide is associated with poor inter-personal problem solving ability. There is an ongoing debate regarding whether poor interpersonal problem solving ability is a trait or state phenomena. Conclusions - There is very little information regarding parasuicidal behaviour in special hospitals. The few studies which have examined this area have identified some background and motivational factors but have failed to examine psychological factors associated with the behaviour. There is a necessity to further our knowledge of these fectors in this population in order to improve assessment and intervention strategies.

• Item Type: Thesis (D Clin Psy)
• Qualification Level: Doctoral
• Additional Information: Adviser: E Campbell
• Keywords: Clinical psychology, Mental health
• Date of Award: 1999
• Depositing User: Enlighten Team
• Unique ID: glathesis:1999-75934
• Copyright: Copyright of this thesis is held by the author.
• Date Deposited: 19 Dec 2019 09:15
• Last Modified: 19 Dec 2019 09:15
• URI: https://theses.gla.ac.uk/id/eprint/75934