| dc.description.abstract | This research is a comparative study of the youths' views towards teenage suicide in Bodø,
Norway and Durban, South Africa. The increase in self-destructive behaviour among
teenagers was of concern in both countries. This study provides an insight into youths'
understanding of the causes of suicide and their prevention strategies.
A variety of data gathering techniques was used within the focus group to elicit perception
and attitudes from participants in a less threatening way. Their opinions on this subject were
then analysed.
The qualitative nature of this study allowed the participants to contribute to a better
understanding of the subject matter. This was used as an empowement to01 for the youth as
gains in knowledge; confidence and engagement become a source of power.
The findings highlight the similarities and differences in the perceptions and attitudes of youth
towards teenage suicide in both countries. It was assumed that the existing cultural, economic
and social differences between South Afiica and Norway would be reflected in the results. It
was therefore interesting to see such a large similarities in attitudes in both countries. The
findings indicate that youths in both countries have a basic understanding of causes and
prevention of teenage suicide. These were, to some degree, consistent with findings and
prevention strategies outlined in literature. However, one can question the efficacy of these
strategies as specific prevention methods for suicide since they primarily deal with general
suggestions to increase positive experiences of the youth. There are two important findings in
this study: the strong influence of cultural factors and the link between internal and external
causes of suicide.
These findings confinn some of the perceived views held by people on teenage suicide.
Empowennent was an underlying factor in this study. By actively encouraging their
participation in identifying and formulating solutions, we have been able to formulate
solutions that are more acceptable to the youths.
The importance of equipping teenagers with the ability to cope with adverse situations that can
becoine potentially dangerous or life threatening was seen as a crucial aspect in preventing
suicide. In designing prevention strategies effectively, it is necessary to acknowledge the
multi-dimension nature of factors within a cultural context. | en |
