The association between child abuse and attempted suicide

Abstract

A recent survey by the authors has demonstrated that attempted suicide is common in parents, particularly mothers, who abuse their children. However, the nature of the association between child abuse and attempted suicide is complicated. Here some possible types of association are suggested. In management of child abuse, special note should be taken of a history of attempted suicide in the parents because, in some cases, it suggests a poor prognosis. Similarly, young children of parents who attempt suicide should be assessed in case they are at risk of abuse. © 1981 The British Association of Social Workers.