Religion as Meaning-Making Resource in Understanding Suicidal Behavior in Ghana and Uganda.

Journal: Frontiers in psychology

Volume: 12

Issue: 

Year of Publication: 

Affiliated Institutions:  Department of Mental Health, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway. Department of Psychology, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana. Department of Sociology and Social Administration, Kyambogo University, Kampala, Uganda. MRCV/Entebbe, Entebbe, Uganda.

Abstract summary 

Suicidal behavior is condemned by religions and tradition, and suicide attempts are criminalized by law in several African countries, including Ghana and Uganda. Suicide and suicide attempts may have severe consequences for both the entire family and the community. Religion is known to act as a protective coping force that helps people to make meaning and find comfort when dealing with stressful life events or situations like suicide. In this article, we focus on the cultural interpretations of the dominating religion in Ghana and Uganda, Christianity, and whether these affect attitudes toward suicidal behavior, meaning making, and coping possibilities for people who have attempted suicide or are bereaved by suicide. This article is based on data material from previous studies on the mentioned topics by the authors.

Authors & Co-authors:  Knizek Birthe Loa BL Andoh-Arthur Johnny J Osafo Joseph J Mugisha James J Kinyanda Eugene E Akotia Charity C Hjelmeland Heidi H

Study Outcome 

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Statistics
Citations :  Adinkrah M. (2012). Criminal prosecution of suicide attempt survivors in Ghana. Int. J. Offender Ther. Comp. Criminol. 20, 1–21. 10.1177/0306624X12456986, PMID:
Authors :  7
Identifiers
Doi : 549404
SSN : 1664-1078
Study Population
Male,Female
Mesh Terms
Other Terms
Africa;culture;meaning-making activity;religion;suicidal behavior
Study Design
Cross Sectional Study
Study Approach
Country of Study
Uganda
Publication Country
Switzerland