Suicide is a complex global health issue, with over 700,000 deaths annually. Media portrayals of suicide can significantly influence suicidal behavior. This chapter explores the multifaceted relationship between media and suicide, examining the influence of various media forms, including traditional media, social media, television, and film. It discusses the Werther and Papageno effects, highlighting the potential for media to trigger copycat suicides or, conversely, promote help-seeking behaviors. The chapter also analyzes the mechanisms through which media influences suicidal behavior, including social cognitive theory, priming theory, cultivation theory, and newer models like algorithmic influence and digital echo chambers. It emphasizes the role of media in suicide prevention, advocating for responsible reporting, media literacy, and collaboration among stakeholders. The chapter provides an overview of media guidelines, ethical considerations, and the latest recommendations from the World Health Organization (WHO). It also explores policy measures, public education strategies, and the potential of AI and technology in suicide prevention. By promoting responsible media portrayals and fostering media literacy, we can harness the power of media to mitigate suicidal behavior and promote mental well-being.

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Media's Influence on Suicidal Behavior

  • Arya Thirumeni,
  • Lekshmi Vimala,
  • R. Dhanasekara Pandian,
  • Anish V. Cherian

摘要

Suicide is a complex global health issue, with over 700,000 deaths annually. Media portrayals of suicide can significantly influence suicidal behavior. This chapter explores the multifaceted relationship between media and suicide, examining the influence of various media forms, including traditional media, social media, television, and film. It discusses the Werther and Papageno effects, highlighting the potential for media to trigger copycat suicides or, conversely, promote help-seeking behaviors. The chapter also analyzes the mechanisms through which media influences suicidal behavior, including social cognitive theory, priming theory, cultivation theory, and newer models like algorithmic influence and digital echo chambers. It emphasizes the role of media in suicide prevention, advocating for responsible reporting, media literacy, and collaboration among stakeholders. The chapter provides an overview of media guidelines, ethical considerations, and the latest recommendations from the World Health Organization (WHO). It also explores policy measures, public education strategies, and the potential of AI and technology in suicide prevention. By promoting responsible media portrayals and fostering media literacy, we can harness the power of media to mitigate suicidal behavior and promote mental well-being.