DESPERATION BEHIND BARS: A STUDY ON SELF-MUTILATION AND SUICIDE IN WOMEN'S PRISON INSTITUTIONS

Abstract

This article aims to discuss the issue of despair, self-mutilation and suicide in women's prisons, shedding light on a complex and often neglected topic. Exploring underlying causes, psychological implications, and prevention strategies, the study seeks to understand the complexities of these self-destructive behaviors among incarcerated women. For that, the methodology used was the theoretical essay that consisted of an analysis and critical synthesis of the literature on the subject. Therefore, the analysis revealed the interaction of factors such as trauma history, lack of access to mental health treatment, social isolation and prison conditions as contributors to despair behind bars. Finally, it is concluded that self-mutilation and suicide emerge as extreme ways of expressing this emotional pain, pointing to the urgency of gender-sensitive interventions focused on emotional well-being.