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Making a symbolic gesture: a qualitative examination of self-immolation in Iran

Author

Listed:
  • Mozhgan Taban

    (Iran University of Medical Sciences)

  • Seyed Kazem Malakouti

    (Iran University of Medical Sciences)

  • Hadi Ranjbar

    (Iran University of Medical Sciences)

  • Mehrdad Eftekhar Ardebili

    (Iran University of Medical Sciences)

  • Seyed Abbas Motavalian

    (Iran University of Medical Science)

  • Mehran Zarghami

    (Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Research Center Zare Hospital)

  • Habibolah Khazaie

    (Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences (KUMS))

  • Hamideh Mohammadi Farsani

    (Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences)

  • Zahra Ghiasi

    (Zahedan University of Medical Sciences)

Abstract

Self-immolation is one of the most dramatic methods of committing suicide. Some regions in Iran have a high prevalence of suicide by this method. This study aims to understand and explore the experience of self-immolated women in Iran. Twenty women have interviewed in the burns centers of three different cities immediately the following hospitalization due self-immolation, and the data was analyzed using conventional content analysis. The results were categorized in three main categories: Cultural background and preparing the stage, making a symbolic gesture and events of the day of the incident. Making a symbolic gesture consists of the critical elements of self-immolation, including the presence of significant others, dramatic presentation of misery, bringing an end to misfortune, proof of innocence, creating a sense of compassion or guilt and inspiration from similar cases. The social situation of women in Iran is contributing to self-immolation through feelings of anger and helplessness.

Suggested Citation

  • Mozhgan Taban & Seyed Kazem Malakouti & Hadi Ranjbar & Mehrdad Eftekhar Ardebili & Seyed Abbas Motavalian & Mehran Zarghami & Habibolah Khazaie & Hamideh Mohammadi Farsani & Zahra Ghiasi, 2019. "Making a symbolic gesture: a qualitative examination of self-immolation in Iran," Quality & Quantity: International Journal of Methodology, Springer, vol. 53(4), pages 2117-2130, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:qualqt:v:53:y:2019:i:4:d:10.1007_s11135-019-00859-9
    DOI: 10.1007/s11135-019-00859-9
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Nahid Darvishi & Mehran Farhadi & Tahereh Haghtalab & Jalal Poorolajal, 2015. "Alcohol-Related Risk of Suicidal Ideation, Suicide Attempt, and Completed Suicide: A Meta-Analysis," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 10(5), pages 1-14, May.
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