Attitudes and myths of suicide in Ireland: an investigation into the prevalence of myths, depth of knowledge and stigmatising attitudes around suicide in a Dublin sample
Authors
Gallagher, Kevin
Issue Date
2002
Degree
BA Counselling and Psychotherapy
Publisher
Dublin Business School
Rights holder
Rights
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Abstract
This study investigated the prevalence of myths in a small sample (111) in Dublin of mixed gender, age and occupational status. Seven myths were placed on a questionnaire and subj ects chosen at random on the street were asked their opinion. They were asked whether they believed, disbelieved or were undecided about each. Similarly, they were asked whether they agreed with five true statements about suicide to assess their depth of knowledge on the subject. They were asked questions to assess their attitude to suicide and counselling. Subj ects displayed low levels of belief in the myths, adequate lmowledge, positive attitudes towards suicide victims and positive attitudes towards counselling. The genders usually agreed but males felt suicide was an acceptable way to end an incurable illness, where females disagreed. If these results bear out in other studies, then some education of the public is needed about the signs of impending suicide.