BTF offers the opportunity for our community of members, researchers, professionals, general public and volunteers to focus intensely on a specific aspect of suicide and suicide prevention. Please explore the following links to see the work of these groups:
The aim of BTF on Clusters and Contagion in Suicidal Behavior is to bring together eager people in research, prevention and policy, who can share information and expertise in clusters and contagion effects in suicidal tendency globally.
Internationally, there is growing public and professional interest in clusters and contagion in suicidal behavior (fatal and non-fatal). There are indications of increasing clustering and contagion effects in suicidal behavior associated with the rise of digital communication systems. Yet, the research in this area and information on effective response procedures and prevention strategies is limited. Over the last 5 years we have seen an increase in research and prevention initiatives addressing clustering and contagion in suicidal behavior in various countries. However, international comparisons are limited and therefore it is unknown whether the proof on clustering and contagious effects is consistent across countries and cultures. BTF will contribute to progressing research, prevention and policy priorities in this significant and challenging area. In time, BTF will explore possibilities to develop specific projects or actions to be undertaken by designated Task Forces.
Specific mission and vision of BTF:
- Sharing information on definitions and the methodologies used in detecting clusters and contagion in suicidal behavior.
- Sharing information acquired in research into clusters and contagion in different countries and facilitate comparative international research.
- Sharing information on policy, response procedures and prevention strategies for clusters and contagion in suicidal behavior from different countries and compare effectiveness.
- Increasing awareness of clusters and contagion in suicidal behavior and associated risk-factors.
- Sharing and transferring expertise across countries when clusters in suicidal behavior emerge.
- Facilitate international collaborative grant applications to progress national and international comparative research, prevention and policy in this area.
- Act as a sympathetic group for individuals and organizations by seeking information and advice.