How can the lens of Dislocation Theory further understanding of why people contemplate suicide?

Abstract

The reasons for suicide remain a widely researched topic. The majority of research on suicide offers reasons for suicide that are attributed to individuals having an underlying mental disorder. Research is needed on reasons for suicide that do not include underlying mental disorders. This thesis then asks, how can the lens of dislocation theory further understanding of why people contemplate suicide? Using a thematic analysis, this research yielded five reasons for suicide most commonly found in the current literature: depression, shame, burdensomeness, escape from pain, and isolation. In discussion, this thesis examines those five reasons through the lens of dislocation theory, presented by Alexander (2008). Dislocation theory is defined by enduring a lack of psychosocial integration, essentially feeling physically, emotionally, psychologically, and/or spiritually disconnected from others (Alexander, 2008). Findings conclude that the reasons for suicide can be understood differently when viewed through the lens of dislocation theory and offer insight in to the individuals’ broader social context that contributed to suicide.