Suicide in the Israeli Army

Abstract

The present study was an attempt to analyze the problem of suicide in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). Suicide is increasing among populations aged 18–21, which in Israel is the age when most young people are called up for a 3‐year period of compulsory military service. The service may have a catalytic effect on suicide, but on the other hand may serve as a control mechanism reducing suicide. The study used data for the period 1974–1985, and examined suicide in combat and noncombat units by duration of service and by preservice psychiatric, medical, and motivational data. The suicide groups were also compared with a matched sample of nonsuicide groups along the relevant variables. The findings seem to be consistent with some established theoretical perspectives of situational stress, social support, and status incompatibility, and seem to bear practical implications for the reduction of suicide.