Abstract
This chapter explores the influence of the media on suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Until recently, the vast majority of studies in this area were concerned with traditional forms of media like newspapers and television and looked at the potential for irresponsible reporting of suicide to lead to copycat acts. Particular subgroups in the population, especially those with depression, may be especially vulnerable to engaging in imitative suicidal behaviors. The World Health Organization and the International Association for Suicide Prevention have also developed a set of international guidelines. The recent proliferation of pro-suicide websites has led to concerns that contagion effects may operate in newer media like the Internet, particularly with the advent of Web 2.0. There are numerous suicide prevention websites, which include educational, interactive, and social networking content. A body of evaluation work is emerging that investigates the potential positive impacts of the Internet in terms of suicide prevention.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | The International Handbook of Suicide Prevention |
| Number of pages | 15 |
| Publisher | Wiley-Blackwell |
| Publication date | 2016 |
| Pages | 743-757 |
| Chapter | 42 |
| ISBN (Print) | 9781118903278 |
| ISBN (Electronic) | 9781118903223 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 2016 |
Keywords
- Contagion effects
- International association for suicide preventions
- Potential positive impacts
- Pro-suicide websites
- Social network
- Suicidal thoughts
- World Health Organization
