Suicidal Tendencies in the Indian Armed Forces: Analyzing the Effects of Rank and Substance Abuse

Abstract

This research aims to evaluate the impact of designation and substance abuse on suicidal tendencies among Indian Army personnel. As per a parliament report, in the last 10 years suicide rate has been high in Indian Army personnel. This research investigates psychological stressors that may be influenced by designation and substance use. A purposive sampling method was used here for sampling. A sample of 40 male Indian Army personnel posted in Gujarat was selected. Data was collected by personal data sheets and the Suicidal Tendency Scale (STS) by D.J. Bhatt and Meghnathi (2004). Data was analysed by using the t-test method. The results revealed a significant difference in suicidal tendencies between commissioned and non-commissioned officers, as well as between addicted and non-addicted personnel. Non-commissioned officers and those with substance abuse problems showed significantly higher levels of suicidal tendencies. While commissioned officers and those who don’t use substances show significantly lower levels of suicidal tendencies.