Experts warn of copycat incidents
The Hindu
Widespread media coverage of deaths by suicide can be counterproductive
Extreme exposure to a singular case of suicide can spark copycat incidents and the widespread media coverage can be counterproductive, say experts. Within two days of Vismaya’s death a handful of similar cases have been reported from various parts of the State and the overwhelming reportage has been pointed out as one reason for this sudden spurt. “Generally, persons who share the same situation of the victim will have a tendency to identify with them or imitate them. Distressed and vulnerable ones may feel inspired to end their life and it’s a known psychological phenomenon. These are not planned acts but impulsive decisions triggered by an immediate stimuli,” says Harish M.T., former president, Indian Psychiatric Society, Kerala branch.More Related News