Investigation of Risk and Protective Factors in Women Attempting Suicide: A Phenomenological Approach

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the lived experiences of women who attempt suicide in terms of risk and protective factors. A qualitative method and a phenomenological approach were used in this practical study. Theoretical saturation of data was achieved after a semi-structured interview with 15 women who had attempted suicide in the city of Isfahan in 2019, and the sample was purposive. For data analysis, MAXQDA software, version 2018, and the seven-step Colaizzi method were used. The reliability of the findings was confirmed using Lincoln and Guba’s criteria. Four themes and eight subthemes were identified for risk factors: tensions in family relationships (subthemes: Arguing and conflict, emotional indifference, lack of marital loyalty), failed relationships (self-blame, loss), psychological distress (living in sorrow and despair, feeling like a burden, perception of inefficiency), and the theme of poverty and unemployment. Four themes were also extracted regarding protective factors: emotional attachment to a family member, sense of responsibility toward children, religious beliefs, and perceived social support. The results of this study suggest that family and emotional relationships and untreated depression are the most important factors identified as effective. The findings and key implications of this study relate primarily to improving the treatment experiences of women survivors of suicide and other high-risk groups through the development of preventive interventions consistent with the findings. © 2022, University of Tehran. All rights reserved.