The Sociocultural Contexts of Attempting Suicide Among Women in Iran

Abstract

In this study, we investigated the sociocultural contexts of suicide attempts among women in Iran. Fifty women who attempted suicide and were admitted to the two main hospitals in Isfahan in 2006 were interviewed. The main themes identified were family problems, marriage and love, social stigma, pressure of high expectations, and poverty. We observed significant sociocultural influence on attempting suicide among the Iranian women in this study. Based on our findings we conclude that the women in the study were affected by social changes and the interplay between traditional and modern values and attitudes. Understanding sociocultural aspects of suicide in Iran is critical in providing effective and culturally sensitive suicide prevention and care programs.