J Korean Neuropsychiatr Assoc.  2015 Aug;54(3):338-349. 10.4306/jknpa.2015.54.3.338.

A Preliminary Study of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Experience Regarding Suicidal Behavior among Mental Health Workers in Korea

• Kim HJ
• Hwang JW
• Jhoo JH
• Kim HS
• Hwang S
• Lee K

• KMID: 2035968
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4306/jknpa.2015.54.3.338

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
This study was conducted to investigate knowledge, attitude, and experience regarding suicidal behavior among mental health workers in Gangwon province of Korea to use as a basis for development of suicide prevention and education programs.
METHODS
Questionnaires consisted of 31 questions including general knowledge regarding suicide statistics and suicide related legislation, attitude toward suicide, awareness of suicide, and individual experiences of suicidal behaviors. Chi-square and binary logistic regression analyses were used to determine differences and association among attitude toward suicide, individual experience of suicide, and sociodemographic characteristics.
RESULTS
Taboo attitude toward suicide showed association with age and male. Males thought that social responsibility for suicide is necessary. Religiously non-affiliated group and people who had previous suicidal ideation and attempts showed a more permissive attitude toward suicide.
CONCLUSION
The findings of this study suggest that demographic characteristics and previous individual experience of suicidal behaviors might influence attitude toward suicide. These personal characteristics should be considered in development of suicide prevention programs for mental health workers.

Keyword

Mental health worker; Attitude toward suicide; Experience of suicidal behavior

MeSH Terms

Education
Gangwon-do
Humans
Korea*
Logistic Models
Male
Mental Health*
Social Responsibility
Suicidal Ideation
Suicide
Taboo

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