Non-fatal suicidal behaviour in women--the role of spousal substance abuse and marital violence.
OBJECTIVE
To investigate the precipitants of non-fatal suicidal behaviour in women using a gender-based comparison.


METHODS
A retrospective analysis of case records. Data were analysed using chi-square tests of significance.


METHODS
One hundred men and 100 women admitted for non-fatal suicidal behaviour at a general hospital.


METHODS
Subjects' biographical details and self reports of precipitating factors such as marital conflict, spousal extramarital affairs, alcohol abuse and marital violence.


RESULTS
Significantly more married women than men cited spousal extramarital affairs, spousal alcohol abuse and marital violence as precipitants of their self-destructive behaviours.


CONCLUSIONS
The findings emphasise the role of spousal behaviour and resultant stress in precipitating non-fatal suicidal behaviour in women. Preventive efforts must focus on the psychological, social and economic empowerment of women.
Pillay
A L
AL
Department of Medically Applied Psychology, University of Natal, Durban.
van der Veen
M B
MB
Wassenaar
D R
DR
D000328:Adult; D016009:Chi-Square Distribution; D005114:Extramarital Relations; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D017533:Marital Status / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D008875:Middle Aged; D015985:Precipitating Factors; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D017678:Sex Distribution; D012737:Sex Factors; D013179:Spouse Abuse / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000523:psychology* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000150:complications / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000523:psychology*; D013406:Suicide, Attempted / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000523:psychology* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D014930:Women / Q000523:psychology*; D014933:Women's Rights