Changes in psychological maladaptation among inmate parasuicides

Thirty-three males who engaged in parasuicide in prison were assessed for suicidal behavior and other psychological maladaptation upon prison entry (T1) and 1 year later (T2). Depression and suicidal ideation scores decreased significantly at 1 year, although continued distress also was evident. State- and trait-anger levels did not change significantly. Congruent with other research, inmates who engaged in parasuicide demonstrated a decrease in psychological maladaptation during imprisonment, although the findings also support the differential impact of imprisonment, with some inmates continuing to experience significant distress.