P01-328 - Explanatory Models of Suicidal Crisis Behavior in Women with Turkish Migratory Background

Abstract

Studies demonstrate that suicidality in female Turkish immigrants in some European countries is higher compared to native-born women of the same age. This indicates a demand for a better understanding of suicide in this group of the society, and, based on such knowledge, specific concepts for prevention. Embedded in the development of a suicide prevention campaign for women of Turkish origin in Berlin, Germany, we assessed explanatory models of suicidal behavior using a qualitative approach. Specifically, we employed focus group discussions with Turkish experts as well as focus group discussions with Turkish women from the community. Groups were stratified by age (age range 18-34, 35-49, and 50+) in order to account for age effects and effects of migration generation. Results show differential conceptions of suicidal crises, the patterns of distress, the perceived causes, and the preferences for help-seeking and treatment as a function of age group and expertise. Based upon these results, we provide a framework for explanatory models of suicidal crisis behavior that are specific for women with a Turkish migratory background in Germany.