Indirect self-destructive behavior in the elderly nursing home patient.

The incidence of indirect self-destructive behavior (ISDB) is explored in a sample of 99 male, predominantly elderly nursing home patients, using a rating scale (ISDB Scale) developed by the authors in a previous study. Scores from the ISDB Scale are correlated with psychological test material, background information, and other descriptive data for the sample of patients. Findings indicate that the use of ISDB in the elderly patient group is associated with direct suicide potential, dissatisfaction with the treatment program and with life in general, confused reasoning and judgment, poor prognosis for discharge, the absence of religious commitment, and significant losses in the patient's life. It appears from the findings that ISDB serves as an alternative form of suicide for many of these patients.