Psychopathic Personality Traits, Suicide Ideation, and Suicide Attempts in Male Prison Inmates

Course overview

Course Description: This course is based upon material published in the journal Criminal Justice and Behavior by Sage Publications on behalf of the International Association for Correctional and Forensic Psychology (IACFP). This course, including the continuing education credits are offered free of charge as a benefit to all IACFP members. Abstract: Prison inmates are at greater risk for death by suicide compared to the general population. Although many risk factors for suicide identified in the general population (e.g., depression, substance abuse) also apply to prison populations, few studies have examined variables that are of particular relevance to prisoners. The current study used cross-sectional survey methodology to examine the relationships of primary and secondary psychopathic personality traits with current suicide ideation and previous suicide attempts in a sample of male prison inmates. Prisoners who endorsed greater secondary psychopathic traits were more likely to be multiple suicide attempters versus single and non-attempters. Primary psychopathic traits did not predict suicide attempt status. The relationship of secondary psychopathic traits and suicide ideation grew stronger as depressive symptoms increased. Primary psychopathic traits were not associated with increased suicide ideation either alone or in confluence with depressive symptoms. Forensic and clinical psychologists can benefit from this course. In addition, this course is appropriate for social workers and professional counselors, especially those interested in forensic psychology or those who work within the criminal justice system. This course is appropriate for intermediate and advanced level practitioners who wish to enhance their knowledge of suicidal ideation, suicide attempts and psychopathic personality traits in male prison inmates. Authors: Smith, Selwyn, Wolford-Clevenger and Mandracchia Learning Objectives: This course will provide the practitioner with detailed information regarding suicidal ideation, suicide attempts and psychopathic personality traits. Specifically, a professional will: Identify risk factors for suicide that are relevant for prison populations. Distinguish types of psychopathic traits that are related to an increased risk for suicide. Describe the relationship between secondary psychopathic traits, suicidal ideation and depressive symptoms. Citation: Smith, P.N., Selwyn, C.N., Wolford-Clevenger, C. and Mandracchia, J.T. (2014). Psychopathic Personality Traits, Suicide Ideation, and Suicide Attempts in Male Prison Inmates. Criminal Justice and Behavior Vol 41 No 3