Psychological Autopsy: Review and Considerations for Future Directions in Korea.
10.4306/jknpa.2015.54.1.40
- Author:
Kyoung Sae NA
1
;
Jong Woo PAIK
;
Mi Kyung YUN
;
Hyun Soo KIM
Author Information
1. Department of Psychiatry, Gachon University, Gil Medical Center, Incheon, Korea.
- Publication Type:Review
- Keywords:
Psychological autopsy;
Suicide prevention;
Mental health
- MeSH:
Autopsy*;
Finland;
Korea;
Mental Health;
Risk Factors;
Suicide
- From:Journal of Korean Neuropsychiatric Association
2015;54(1):40-48
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:Korean
-
Abstract:
Psychological autopsy is a systematic methodology for comprehensive investigation of psychiatric and behavioral factors assumed to be causative or related to death of the deceased. In many countries, psychological autopsy is considered the most direct and valuable tool for determining the relationship between risk factors and suicide. The case of Finland revealed that successful psychological autopsy studies could greatly contribute to the national suicide prevention strategy, which consequently reduced the national suicide rate. Despite the strengths of psychological autopsy for identifying risk factors of suicide and consequently preventing suicide, it has not been successful in Korea. Implementation of psychological autopsy has been inconsistent and sporadic across the provinces. In addition, standardization of psychological autopsy protocol and qualification of interviewers are needed. With all of these methodological issues in mind, conduct of as many psychological autopsies as possible is important in order to build an evidence-based suicide prevention strategy. For successful implementation of psychological autopsy in Korea, it is necessary to improve attitudes toward suicide and psychiatric conditions. Legal, administrative, and institutional support are also important. Finally, multidisciplinary approach based on the financial and legal support should be employed.
