The Problematic Label of Suicide Gesture Alternatives for Clinical Research and Practice

• Published in: Professional psychology, research and practice Vol. 41; no. 3; pp. 221 - 227
• Main Authors: Heilbron, Nicole, Compton, Jill S, Daniel, Stephanie S, Goldston, David B
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States American Psychological Association 01-06-2010
• Subjects: Attempted Suicide; Clinical medicine; Clinical research; Clinical training; Functional assessment; Gestures; Human; Psychiatric Symptoms; Psychological Assessment; Psychological Terminology; Psychopathology; Suicide; Suicides & suicide attempts; suicide gesture; nomenclature; suicide attempt; functional assessment; operational definitions; language for describing psychiatric symptoms
• ISSN: 0735-7028; 1939-1323
• DOI: 10.1037/a0018712

Historically, certain terms used to describe psychopathology have evolved over time because of changing social and political contexts. This paper explores the importance of a clear and consistent language for characterizing suicide-related behaviors with a particular focus on the commonly used label "suicide gesture." The historical and contemporary uses of the term are explored and clinical, research, and training implications are discussed. Clinicians and researchers are strongly encouraged to consider discontinuing the use of the term suicide gesture in light of its associated dismissive connotations and inconsistent application in clinical practice and research. In lieu of the term suicide gesture, recommendations are made regarding an increased emphasis by clinicians and researchers on more precise descriptions of suicidal behaviors and the functional assessment of suicide-related behaviors.