Suicide complex: a narrative and theatrical inquiry on suicide survivors

This thesis is about the experiences of those who have lost their loved ones through suicide (called "suicide survivors"). Focusing on how they live their lives after the suicide and the unique features of their journeys, a methodology combining narrative and dramatic (applied theatre approach) is employed, including presenting the findings with narrative analysis. Jungian psychology serves as the theoretical basis for analysis and interpretation. With the aid of Papadopoulos' 'Trauma Grid' (TG) (Papadopoulos, 2007), the contributing factors to their experiences are explored, which include negative impacts, positive outcomes, and resilience. The central research question addresses the following: What are the unique features of suicide survivors‟ journeys and experiences? What contributes to the negative impacts, the positive and the unchanged? How can a combination of Jungian psychology and Papadopoulos‟ TG provide a theoretical framework to put the survivors‟ experiences in a unique perspective? How can the methodological principles of narrative and theatrical provide a platform for suicide survivors to tell stories which are true to their experiences? In what way do narrative and theatrical approaches provide an effective vehicle suitable for this type of bereavement? After gathering data and analysing the findings, the researcher has proposed a hypothesis of suicide complex that is responsible for the complexity of suicide. Suicide is a total problem, covering biological, psychological, sociological, and cultural factors. Although this complex explains the elevated suicidal risk for survivors, it also sheds light on the transmitting effect among the general public indirectly. To tackle the issue of reducing the suicide of survivors, the community and society need to collaborate together, helping survivors transform the tragic loss to positive growth.