Integrating Models of Suicidality in Canadian Suicidology

A Literature Review

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.29173/cjen246

Keywords:

suicice, emergency nursing, suicidal careers, narrative-crisis model, attachment styles, developmental stages, Canadian suicidology

Abstract

Background: Suicide is a pressing public health issue that necessitates comprehensive understanding and intervention strategies. This literature review integrates various models of suicidality, including suicidal careers, Galynker's Narrative-Crisis Framework, attachment styles, gender differences, and developmental stages. Objective: The objective of this review is to synthesize these models and frameworks to provide a holistic perspective on suicidality, emphasizing the importance of cultural contexts and developmental stages in emergency nursing practice. Methods: This review collates findings from multiple theoretical and empirical studies to explore the complex interplay of factors contributing to suicidality. By integrating diverse models, this review aims to offer insights that can inform emergency nursing practice, policy, and research. Results: The integration of suicidal careers and the Narrative-Crisis Framework reveals the dynamic and evolving nature of suicidal behavior, underscoring the importance of narrative and identity in understanding suicidality. Attachment styles are identified as significant predictors of suicidal tendencies, with insecure attachment linked to higher suicide risk. Gender differences are highlighted, with findings indicating that males and females exhibit different patterns of suicidal behavior and risk factors. Developmental stages are also crucial, as the risk factors and manifestations of suicidality vary across the lifespan. Conclusion: This review underscores the necessity for emergency nurses to adopt a multidisciplinary approach in assessing and intervening with individuals at risk of suicide. By understanding the intricate and multifaceted nature of suicidality, emergency nursing practice can be enhanced, leading to better patient outcomes. The review advocates for culturally sensitive and developmentally appropriate interventions, stressing the need for emergency nurses to be equipped with knowledge from various theoretical perspectives to effectively address suicidality in diverse populations. Implications for Practice: This comprehensive approach offers valuable insights for emergency nurses, aiding in the development of targeted strategies for suicide prevention. Enhanced understanding of the factors contributing to suicidality can lead to improved assessment, intervention, and prevention strategies in emergency settings, ultimately reducing the incidence of suicide and improving patient care.

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2025-10-15

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Gay, M. (2025). Integrating Models of Suicidality in Canadian Suicidology: A Literature Review. Canadian Journal of Emergency Nursing, 48(2), 22–40. https://doi.org/10.29173/cjen246

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Vol. 48 No. 2 (2025): Canadian Journal of Emergency Nursing

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