Suicidal Ideation and Behavior Among Women in Jail

Abstract

Suicide is one of the leading causes of death in U.S. jails; more than 400 jail inmates take their lives each year. Many risk factors for suicide are overrepresented in jail populations. The numbers of women incarcerated in the nation’s jails have increased dramatically in recent years. Yet most research on suicide has focused on males. This study assesses the rates and patterns of suicidal ideation and behavior among 1,272 women in jail. Overall, 53.7% reported suicidal ideation or suicidal behavior at some point in their lifetime. Non-Hispanic Whites were more likely than Hispanics to report thoughts of death (OR = 1.67), and more likely than African Americans to report wanting to die (OR = 1.59), thoughts of suicide (OR = 1.74), and previous suicide attempts (OR = 2.47). The authors discuss implications for research and the criminal justice system.