Analysis of the sources of psychological distress and coping skills in subjects with suicidal behavior in the state of Merida, through the Thematic Apperception Test (TAT)

Abstract

Suicidal behavior is increasing worldwide and undoubtedly represents a public health problem; Venezuela does not escape from this situation. Therefore, it is important to psychologically evaluate this phenomenon through different instruments. For the present study we proceeded to investigate suicidal behavior through the Thematic Apperception Test (TAT), in a sample of 20 subjects who have presented suicidal ideation and attempts. The subjects came from two localities in the state of Merida. In particular, the objective was to collect the experience of the subjects, evaluated with four cards of this test: 3VH, 3NM, 14 and 17NM. The stories highlight the weight of socioeconomic limitations and isolation in the configuration of suffering, as well as the central place that interpersonal support can occupy to challenge the hopelessness that suicide entails.