Myth: The Death Scene Shows that the Cause of Death Was Suicide
The development of the psychological autopsy by Edwin Shneidman was due to the coroner’s inability to determine intent from the acts of the case. Even in cases where it appears as if there was another actor may have been present, it’s difficult to rule out suicide.
Fact: You Cannot Infer Intent Exclusively from the Scene
While there are clues in the scene that can lead to the determination that a death was a suicide, in most cases, it isn’t so clear. Suicide is about intentional self-harm. It’s difficult to determine intent if the person died.
In cases where it appears that someone else may have been involved, because the means of death don’t appear to be able to be self-triggered, some odd scenes result from an attempt. Conversely, it’s hard to rule out murder; even if the scene looks as if it were a suicide, it’s difficult to ensure that the death scene wasn’t staged or manipulated.
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Evidence
The evidence is firmly that you can’t determine suicide by the scene alone, because suicides can appear like murders – and some murders are covered up by being made to look like a suicide.
In Support of the Myth
None identified.
To Refute the Myth
"Complex suicides: 21 cases and a review of the literature" (2022)
Explains how complex suicides (more than one method) are often attributed to murder.
This myth is addressed in the book.
Autopsy of a Suicidal Mind (2004)
Shares the story of an autopsy of “Arthur” requested by his mother.
Explains the psychological autopsy method.
Explains how even suicide notes aren’t clear indicators.
Explains what clues people leave towards their thoughts and intentions.
Explains what clues people leave towards their thoughts and intentions.
Unclear or Mixed Support
None identified.
Learn more about suicide myths – and the truths behind them – by following the links below.