Abstract
Background: Despite the protective factors of Islam suicide, female suicide attempts exists in Palestine.
However there is little information about the causes, risks or protective factors regarding suicide for women in
Palestine. Aims: This study investigates the history and experiences of Palestinian women who have attempted
suicide in order to better inform policy makers, service providers and the international community about steps
need to reduce this disturbing trend. Methods: Guided interviews were completed with 20 female suicide
attempt survivors in Palestine using a qualitative phenomenological method to analyze the data. Results: Five
themes emerged: victimization related to violence; Loss (family members, cultural identity, relationships, and
security); psychological factors ; socio-cultural factors; and lack of support systems. Conclusion and
Recommendation: The findings of the study demonstrate the importance of understanding the experience of
suicide in the female population in Palestine, looking at risks related to victimization, loss, and lack of personal
control. The findings reflect the need for a holistic national strategy for prevention including support for mental
health and advocacy programs for women, demanding basic human rights, prohibiting cultural practices such as
child marriage, providing economic and social support and promoting Islamic values rather than traditional
customs.
Keywords: Suicide, Women’s Issues, Palestine, Victimization, Socio-cultural factors

العنوان

Journal of Health, Medicine and Nursing

الناشر

The International Institute for Science, Technology and Education www.iiste.org

بلد الناشر

الولايات المتحدة الأمريكية

نوع المنشور

Both (Printed and Online)

المجلد

21

السنة

2016

الصفحات

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