ABSTRACT
AIM: This paper summarizes the results of a cross-sectional study aimed at exploring the role of personality disorders in predicting the suicide risk among males imprisoned for various offenses. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The data set used in analyses was based on the responses of 124 males imprisoned for various violent or non-violent offenses (M(age) = 32.39 years, SD = 8.43 years). Male offenders were interviewed using a form for demographic data and information on suicidal history. Also, they completed the Suicide Behaviors Questionnaire-Revised, as part of a broader protocol used in an ongoing study focused on the psychosocial and pharmacological aspects relevant to the diagnosis and management of personality disorders among inmates. RESULTS: At the time of data collection, forty-three respondents (34.7%) were diagnosed with at least one personality disorder. Data were analyzed using hierarchical multiple linear regression. The frequency of suicide attempts during the periods of freedom and during incarceration were significant predictors of suicide risk. Moreover, the diagnosis of personality disorder brought a significant addition to the power of final regression model, explaining almost 8% of the variance in suicide risk among the inmates. CONCLUSIONS: The findings highlight the importance of implementing prevention programs in correctional institutions, with screening and monitoring of inmates diagnosed with severe mental disorders as an important component.