Attitude Towards Suicide Among Male and Female Young Adults

Abstract

Suicide is a critical global health issue, claiming over 800,000 lives annually and ranking as the second leading cause of death among individuals aged 15 – 29 (WHO, 2014). In India, it accounts for 17% of global suicides. Attitudes toward suicide play a key role in shaping suicidal ideation and influencing prevention efforts. This study aimed to examine gender differences in attitudes toward suicide among young adults. An ex post facto research design with a convenience sample of 108 participants (54 males, 54 females) aged 18 – 40 was employed. The Attitudes Towards Suicide Scale (ATTS; Renberg & Jacobsson, 2003) was used to assess attitudes. Results showed significant gender differences, with females scoring higher across all attitude factors. Most participants agreed with statements on permissiveness (21%) and preventability (20%), while fewer agreed with those on loneliness and appeal (11%). These findings suggest the need for gender-specific suicide prevention strategies tailored to differing attitudes.