Exploring community perceptions on underreporting of suicide in Indian rural settings from psychosocial and cultural perspective

Background

The Indian rural population is recognised as one of the vulnerable segments of the society in terms of reporting suicide. Inconsistencies in the reporting of suicide impede the real suicide case, that in turn hinders efforts to prevent suicide. There are differences in suicide motives in rural areas due to the clear cultural and social borders, that could affect reporting. Very few studies have examined these psychological and sociocultural variables in rural context. Thus, the main goal of the current investigation is to comprehend these aspects and recommend strategies accordingly.

Method

The present study employed in-depth interviewing using focus group discussions on a sample of 93 participants. Through purposive sampling 12 areas were shortlisted from four districts from Bihar State, India. Only those areas were selected, where suicide had occurred in the last one year. All the twelve discussions were finally transcribed and using the thematic analysis approach qualitative data were analysed.

Results

Three themes appeared followed by their subthemes. First theme was apprehensions and fears and the subtheme emerged were society's reaction towards suicide and legal procedure. Second theme was religious belief related to suicide and the subthemes were, soul wandering, unfulfilled desire of the soul, and life after death. Third theme was females were more underreported and subtheme emerged i.e., protecting the honor of the family, and laws related to women social issues.

Conclusion

Findings of this study suggest that psychosocial and cultural factors serve as barrier in reporting and hinders suicide prevention process. This finding indicates that formulating multisectoral approach in reducing community attitude and stigma of rural population towards suicide.