Religion as Meaning-Making Resource in Understanding Suicidal Behavior in Ghana and Uganda
Date
2021
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Frontiers in Psychology
Abstract
Suicidal behavior is condemned by religions and traditions, and suicide attempts are
criminalized by law in several African countries, including Ghana and Uganda. Suicide
and suicide attempts may have severe consequences for both the entire family and the
community. Religion is known to act as a protective coping force that helps people to
make meaning and find comfort when dealing with stressful life events or situations like
suicide. In this article, we focus on the cultural interpretations of the dominating religion
in Ghana and Uganda, Christianity, and whether these affect attitudes toward suicidal
behavior, meaning-making, and coping possibilities for people who have attempted suicide
or are bereaved by suicide. This article is based on data material from previous studies
on the mentioned topics by the authors.
Description
Research Article
Keywords
suicidal behavior, meaning-making activity, Africa, culture, religion
Citation
Knizek BL, Andoh-Arthur J, Osafo J, Mugisha J, Kinyanda E, Akotia C and Hjelmeland H (2021) Religion as Meaning-Making Resource in Understanding Suicidal Behavior in Ghana and Uganda. Front. Psychol. 12:549404. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.549404