1st Edition

Rational Suicide? Implications for Mental Health Professionals

By James L. Werth Jr. Copyright 1996
    172 Pages
    by Taylor & Francis

    172 Pages
    by Taylor & Francis

    The idea that suicide may be an acceptable, rational option is rarely presented in professional literature. However, recent events and developments forcefully demonstrate that mental health professionals can no longer ignore the possibility that people can make a rational decision to die. After introducing the concept of rational suicide, the book explores the changing views of suicide over the centuries. Common arguments against rational suicide are examined and rebutted.

    Chapter 1 Introduction to Rational Suicide; Chapter 2 The History of Suicide; Chapter 3 Arguments Against Rational Suicide; Chapter 4 Research on Mental Health Professionals’ Attitudes; Chapter 5 Criteria for Rational Suicide; Chapter 6 Additional Considerations: Necessary Research, Prejudice, and Values; Chapter 7 Ethical and Legal Implications; Chapter 8 Conclusions and Predictions;

    Biography

    James L. Werth Counseling and Psychological Services University of Arkansas