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21/01/2005
Research links intellect to suicide risk
A study published in the British Medical Journal has linked poor intelligence test scores in teenage boys with a risk of suicide in men.
Researchers analysed the results of four intelligence tests, which were performed by 987,308 Swedish men at conscription into the military. In the long-term syudy, the men were subsequently monitored for up to 26 years and any incidences of suicide recorded.
The researchers found that the better performance on the tests was associated with a reduced risk of suicide. The strongest associations were with the logic test score, where the risk of suicide was three times higher in the lowest, compared with the highest scores.
Researchers believe that the finding is unlikely to be mere coincidence, because of the strength of the link and the large sample group used. However, few previous studies have assessed the association of measures of intelligence with suicide and results have often conflicted.
The researchers have said that one possible explanation of the results could be influences on brain development in childhood, which could also increase an individual's susceptibility to mental illness and, hence, suicide. It was also suggested that the results might also be due to an individual's ability to solve problems in times of crisis or maladjustment in childhood.
(KMcA/SP)
Researchers analysed the results of four intelligence tests, which were performed by 987,308 Swedish men at conscription into the military. In the long-term syudy, the men were subsequently monitored for up to 26 years and any incidences of suicide recorded.
The researchers found that the better performance on the tests was associated with a reduced risk of suicide. The strongest associations were with the logic test score, where the risk of suicide was three times higher in the lowest, compared with the highest scores.
Researchers believe that the finding is unlikely to be mere coincidence, because of the strength of the link and the large sample group used. However, few previous studies have assessed the association of measures of intelligence with suicide and results have often conflicted.
The researchers have said that one possible explanation of the results could be influences on brain development in childhood, which could also increase an individual's susceptibility to mental illness and, hence, suicide. It was also suggested that the results might also be due to an individual's ability to solve problems in times of crisis or maladjustment in childhood.
(KMcA/SP)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:After a dry start this morning rain will spread from the northwest across all parts. This afternoon will be dull with some patchy rain and drizzle. Becoming much milder through the afternoon. Maximum temperature 11 °C.Tonight:A cloudy evening and night with a little light rain or drizzle, perhaps some clear periods developing along the east coast. A very mild night everywhere. Minimum temperature 10 °C.
