Classification of suicidal behaviors. II. Dimensions of suicidal intent.

A factor analysis of a scale to assess suicidal intent showed four major dimensions: expectancies and attitudes, premeditation, precautions against intervention, and oral communication. Certain types of actions associated with attempted suicide such as seeking help or social isolation appear to be revealing of particular behavioral patterns or motives. Dealing with intent only as a global concept is an oversimplification. Suicidal ideation and suicidal acts are seen as complex patterns of behavior requiring increasingly thorough analyses for better understanding, prediction, and prevention.