Suicidal Risk in Penitentiary Facilities in Bucaramanga (Colombia): A Logit Model for Early Detection

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.15649/2346075X.5057

Keywords:

Suicide Risk, Incarcerated Individuals, Suicidal Ideation, Self-Harm

Abstract

Introduction. People deprived of liberty are exposed to multiple risk factors that lead to physical and emotional deterioration, thereby  increasing their vulnerability to suicide. It is imperative to identify reliable warning signs to prevent this issue and to guide the implementation of life- reserving interventions. Objectives. To analyze sociodemographic, penitentiary, and psychological factors associated with suicidal risk among individuals incarcerated in correctional facilities in Bucaramanga. Materials and Methods. The SCL-90 Symptom Inventory and the Plutchik Suicide Risk Scale were administered to a non-random sample of 73 incarcerated individuals who voluntarily agreed to participate. In addition to descriptive analyses and tests comparing means and proportions across groups defined by suicide risk status, a logit model was estimated to identify variables influencing the probability of suicidal risk. Results and Discussion. The prevalence of suicidal risk in the sample was 70%. The presence of suicidal ideation (AME = 18.96 pp, p = 0.042), together with certain psychosomatic dimensions—such as obsessive-compulsive behavior (AME = 24.46 pp, p = 0.029) and sensitivity (AME = 21.82 pp, p= 0.004)—emerged as relevant indicators for early detection of suicidal risk. Conclusions. The findings are consistent with prior studies reporting a high incidence of suicidal risk in this population, significantly influenced by psychosomatic factors and suicidal ideation. Life preservation programs (AME = –21.91 pp, p= 0.061) may contribute to mitigating this issue. 

Author Biographies

  • Josefa Ramoni-Perazzi, Universidad Industrial de Santander

    Economist, Master in Statistics and  Ph.D. in Economics. Full professor at the Universidad industrial de Santander

  • Giampaolo Orlandoni-Merli, Universidad de Los Andes

    Economist, Master in Economics and  doctor in Statistics. Full professor at the Universidad de Los Andes

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2025-09-18 — Updated on 2025-09-18

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Ramoni-Perazzi, J., Amaya Díaz, L. P., & Orlandoni-Merli, G. (2025). Suicidal Risk in Penitentiary Facilities in Bucaramanga (Colombia): A Logit Model for Early Detection. Innovaciencia, 13(1). https://doi.org/10.15649/2346075X.5057

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