“Violent Criminals” or Suicidal: Re-conceptualizing Suicide and Suicidal Self-harm

• In Event: Social Movements & Crime Prevention

Abstract

This qualitative research captures black/African diaspora men ages 15-34 often labelled “violent” and “criminal” rather than being encouraged, or required, to utilize mental health services and suicide prevention programs. It is difficult to capture black/African diaspora mental health, suicide and suicidal self-harm despite increased research and community programs that address black/African diaspora cultures and communities. With homicide being the leading cause of death for black men ages 15-34 (CDC.gov) there is ongoing need to assess various factors contributing to violence and criminality. Violence and criminality are often interpreted as black/African diaspora inclinations and criminogenic environments. The present study proposes re-conceptualizing violence, mental health, suicide and suicidal self-harm to include all behaviors done with the intent to die. Suicidal ideation, suicidal behavior and mental illness are possible correlates of violence. Therefore, it is proposed that some black/African diaspora men engage in violence and confrontations with law enforcement in order to be fatally injured or instantly killed. This highlights the importance of research and community outreach to help people, black/African diaspora men in the present study—with emphasis on lower socioeconomic status, who are labelled “violent” and “criminal” when, instead, there need to be mental health services and suicide prevention.

Author

• Kimya N Dennis, Salem College