Suicidal vulnerability among offenders in rehabilitation centers: An explanatory model
Young offenders are particularly at risk of suicidal ideation and both attempted and completed suicide. Williams (2001) developed the Cry of Pain model to explain the trajectory of suicide in the general population, while Joiner’s (2005) interpersonal suicide model was designed to predict completed suicides. The Cry of Pain model suggests that suicidal thoughts and behaviors are the result of a process that involves a sense of defeat, the perception of being trapped, and feelings of hopelessness. The model developed by Joiner includes three additional factors : little sense of belonging, the feeling of being a burden, and an openness to the idea of suicide. A review of recent literature was conducted and personal and institutional risk factors were used to test which of the two models is most applicable to the population of interest. The results suggest that being in custody in a rehabilitation center has the potential to lead young offenders to follow the Cry of Pain trajectory. Implications for research and intervention are discussed.