The role of genetic and environmental risk factors in aetiology of suicidal behaviour

Abstract

Suicidal behaviour is an extreme manifestation of psychological problems. According to the model of suicidal continuum, this behaviour includes suicidal thoughts, intentions, suicide attempts and completed suicide (Wasserman, 2001). It is thought that suicidal tendencies (including suicidal attempts) and completed suicide are aetiologically distinct. On the other hand, suicidal behaviour may intensify over time (Voytsekh, 2007; Wasserman, 2001).