[Poisoning as a method of suicide in children and adolescents]

Dtsch Med Wochenschr. 1985 Jan 25;110(4):137-40. doi: 10.1055/s-2008-1068787.
[Article in German]

Abstract

The number of suicides by children and juveniles has remained similar or even slightly reduced in the last 5 years. This correlates with the constancy or slight reduction in the number of the under-20-years population over this period. Comparison with deaths due to suicide in Prussia (1894-1897) indicates that suicide in children and juveniles is not more common today than it was nearly a hundred years ago. Hanging and suffocation are the most frequent means, followed by poisoning. Less common are jumping from a height, shooting, drowning or stabbing. Cause of the suicide attempt is usually a disturbed relationship to a partner. Acute quarrel with parents dominates. The psychopathological background is abnormal reactions to experience and abnormal reactions to conflict. Neurosis and psychosis or infantile reactions are much less common.

Publication types

  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Child
  • Germany, West
  • Humans
  • Hypnotics and Sedatives / poisoning
  • Insecticides / poisoning
  • Plant Growth Regulators / poisoning
  • Poisoning / epidemiology*
  • Psychology, Adolescent
  • Psychology, Child
  • Psychotropic Drugs / poisoning
  • Suicide / epidemiology*
  • Suicide / psychology

Substances

  • Hypnotics and Sedatives
  • Insecticides
  • Plant Growth Regulators
  • Psychotropic Drugs