Abnormal Psychology

240 CHAPTER 6

study on suicide prevention: Those with any suicidal ideation, only those with

a concrete plan, or those who have already tried once? Moreover, people who

have already made at least one attempt may differ from those whose fi rst attempt

results in death. Another problem is determining what constitutes an appropriate

control group. It would be unethical not to offer suicidal individuals in a control

group the same level of services as those in the treatment group (De Leo, 2002b).

Figure 6.8

6.8 • Feedback Loops in Action: Suicide

Brain Systems

Neural Communication

Mental Processes and

Mental Contents

Gender/Culture

Frontal lobes

Serotonin

Genetics

Inherited

vulnerability

to depressive

disorders

Poor coping skills

and problem-solving

abilities

Distorted and rigid

thinking

Affect Behavior

Hopelessness

Despair

Previous suicide

attempt(s)

Impulsivity Gender and cultural

differences can lead to

alienation

Religion

NeuroPsychoSocial

NeuroPsychoSocial NeuroPsychoSocial

Family

No known major

contribution

Stressful Life Events

Life challenges