FACTORS IN SUICIDAL ATTEMPTS, A REVIEW OF 25 CONSECUTIVE CASES

Abstract

In a study of 25 cases of unsuccessful attempted suicide, 6 of the 17 men and 1 of the 8 women were found to be chronic alcoholics. The alcoholics "show an infantile attitude with strong oral libido investment. They have a secret fear of their inability to make successful heterosexual adjustments. Instead of seeking out a heterosexual love object within social limitations they often overcompensate by attempting obvious promiscuity while secretly desiring a more infantile, mother-attachment type of relationship. The alcohol is used to dull their sense of fear of their own inferiorities. Seven of 25 cases, or 28%, not only drank alcohol but took it in sufficient quantities that it could be considered a self-administered destructive agent." The case histories are reported in detail.