The Relation Between Sexual Orientation and Suicide Attempts in Austria
Submitted on Thursday, 4 February 2010
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Abstract Previous studies indicate that homosexual or bisexual individuals are at a higher risk of attempting suicide compared to heterosexuals.
To overcome biases in these studies, more rigorous definitions of “suicide attempts” and the assessment of multiple dimensions
of sexual orientation are needed. In addition, studies from the German speaking region are sparse, especially those not recruiting
participants from the gay or lesbian communities. We solicited self-reported suicide attempts among 1,382 Austrian adults
recruited through structured snowball sampling from students’ social networks. Suicide attempts were more frequently reported
by those participants with homosexual or bisexual fantasies, partner preference, behavior, and self-identification, compared
to their heterosexually classified counterparts. This was true for any dimension of sexual orientation and for suicide attempts
with intent to die or suicide attempts that required medical treatment. Our Austrian study confirmed existing evidence that
homosexual and bisexual individuals are at an increased risk for attempting suicide. This should be considered in suicide
preventive efforts.
- Content Type Journal Article
- Category Original Paper
- DOI 10.1007/s10508-009-9597-0
- Authors
- Martin Plöderl, University Institute for Clinical Psychology, Paracelsus Private Medical University and Christian-Doppler-Klinik Salzburg Austria
- Karl Kralovec, Paracelsus Private Medical University Suicide Prevention Research Program, Institute of Public Health Salzburg Austria
- Reinhold Fartacek, Paracelsus Private Medical University Suicide Prevention Research Program, Institute of Public Health Salzburg Austria
- Journal Archives of Sexual Behavior
- Online ISSN 1573-2800
- Print ISSN 0004-0002
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