Journal of Families and Better Life (가정과삶의질연구)

Korean Home Management Association (가정과삶의질학회)
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A Study on the Variables Influencing Suicidal Ideation in Single Person Households: Targeting One Gu in Gwangju

1인 가구원의 자살생각에 영향을 미치는 관련 변인 연구: 광주지역 1개구를 대상으로

  • Kim, Hoa-Jean (Department of Family Environment & Welfare, Chonnam National University) ;
  • Kim, Kyeong-Shin (Department of Family Environment & Welfare, Chonnam National University)
  • Received : 2015.09.16
  • Accepted : 2015.11.30
  • Published : 2015.12.31
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Abstract

This study aims to examine the general tendency of suicidal ideation in single person households and to analyse the differences and effects of related variables(sociodemographic variables, characteristics of single person households, happiness and depression) on suicidal ideation. For achieving these purposes, a survey was conducted using questionnaires, based on quota sampling that considers the distribution of population in each dong of one Gu in Gwangju. Finally, data of 686 single person households were used for analysis. The study findings were as follows. The average score of suicidal ideation in single person households was 6.47 points, it was somewhat higher as compared to prior research that was targeting general households. And the average score of happiness index was 4.17 points, depression was 33.11 points. The level of suicidal ideation in single person households was significantly different according to age, occupation, economic status, health status, period of single life, life satisfaction, and contact with family. In addition, the level of depression(${\beta}=.24$, p<.01) had the biggest effect on suicidal ideation in single person households and it was followed by happiness index(${\beta}=-.19$, p<.05) and family visit(${\beta}=-.15$, p<.05). The total explanatory power was 37%. These findings imply that it is important to find a high mental health risk group and treat it early, because there is a high possibility that single person households might have mental health problems by being isolated or alienated from society. In addition, diverse program and services designed to maintain familial bonds despite family members living separately are needed.

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