EMOTIONAL CONTENT OF SUICIDE NOTES

Abstract

1. An analysis was made of the emotional content of notes left by 165 suicides in Philadelphia over a 5-year period. Over half the notes showed such positive affect as gratitude, affection, and concern for the welfare of others, while only 24% expressed hostile or negative feelings directed toward themselves or the outside world, and 25% were completely neutral in affect. 2. Persons aged 45 and over showed less affect than those under 45, with a concomitant increase in neutral affect. 3. Persons who were separated or divorced showed more hostility than those single, married, or widowed. 4. It is believed that these findings have certain implications for further understanding of suicide and ultimate steps toward prevention. The recognition that positive or neutral feelings are present in the majority of cases should lead to a more promising outlook in the care and treatment of potential suicides if they can be identified.

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