miller-dancingwith-2006.pdf (1.01 MB)
Dancing with death : the grey area between suicide related behavior, indifference and risk behaviors of heroin users
Suicide-related behavior (SRB) among heroin users is a complex and multifaceted continuum, including such fringe areas as indifference and "risky" behavior. The article investigates the nuances and intersections of SRB, using qualitative semi-structured interviews with 60 regular heroin users recruited primarily from syringe programs in Geelong, Australia. Twenty-eight percent of interviewees reported a previous suicide attempt and 45% reported serious consideration of it. Types of SRB reported included: Suicide attempts, instrumental suicide-related behaviors, suicidal ideation, indifference and risk-taking thoughts and behaviors. Heroin users engage in much behavior which inhabits a grey area of SRB. The use of a nomenclature which addresses the elements of lethality and intent improves the ability of research to properly define and categorize SRB in drug-using populations. But the categories should not be overinclusive; indifferent attitudes towards death and risk-taking behaviors can sometimes be a functional response to the risk environment of heroin users.
History
Journal
Contemporary drug problemsVolume
33Issue
3Season
FallPagination
427 - 450Publisher
Federal Legal Publications, Inc.Location
Carmel, N.Y.ISSN
0091-4509Language
engNotes
This material may not be reproduced in any form for commercial use without obtaining permission from Federal Legal Publications, Inc.Publication classification
C1.1 Refereed article in a scholarly journalCopyright notice
2006, Federal Legal PublicationsUsage metrics
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