A psychodynamic approach to suicide prevention

This paper sets forth a new theoretical approach to understanding the psychological etiology of suicide. The theory is demonstrated by an in-depth clinical case example, and its implications for the management of the suicidal candidate in his acute interim and long-term care are described. The theory assumes that the primary motivation to suicide comes from a clinically characteristic, unremitting psychological pain. The role of the suicidal prevention center is discussed with specific emphasis on the quality of the engagement between a center staff person and the suicidal patient. A future course for suicide centers is suggested based on the theory .Peer Reviewedhttp://deepblue.lib.umich.edu/bitstream/2027.42/44296/1/10597_2005_Article_BF01411076.pd