Risk factors for completed suicide in veterans of peacekeeping: repatriation, negative life events, and marital status

Arch Suicide Res. 2006;10(4):353-63. doi: 10.1080/13811110600791106.

Abstract

This psychological autopsy study focused on suicide risk factors in veterans of peacekeeping, specifically, a representative sample of Norwegian peacekeepers. A multivariate analysis yielded three dimensions with a unique impact on suicide risk: Involuntary repatriation from peacekeeping service, negative life-events before peacekeeping and marital status. In accordance with previous research into suicidal processes, repatriation probably reflects an event causing severe damage to peacekeepers' self-esteem, which combined with vulnerability and lack of protection could increase suicide risk. Preventive measures should focus on careful personnel selection and follow-up of repatriated individuals.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cohort Studies
  • Humans
  • Life Change Events*
  • Male
  • Marital Status
  • Marriage / psychology
  • Military Personnel / psychology*
  • Military Personnel / statistics & numerical data*
  • Norway
  • Personnel Selection
  • Risk Factors
  • Social Environment*
  • Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / epidemiology
  • Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / psychology*
  • Suicide / psychology*
  • Suicide / statistics & numerical data*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Veterans / psychology*
  • Veterans / statistics & numerical data*