Jess G. Fiedorowicz, Raveendra B. Chigurupati
The University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
Internet and Suicide. Hauppauge, New York: Nova Science Publishers, 2009, 452 pages.

There has been considerable debate as to whether the Internet predominantly prevents or promotes suicide. With recent unfettered growth and the broad-reaching popularity of this technology, the study of the role of the Internet in suicide prevention and promotion is assuming greater relevance. This topic defies systematic study and subsequently the debate over its role in suicide will undoubtedly persist. Further, efforts to address concerns about the potential of the Internet to promote suicide face several barriers and challenge freedom of expression. Internet content may indeed assist in suicide prevention efforts or influence the expression of suicidal behaviors in vulnerable individuals. Those treating such vulnerable individuals should be wary of potential risk and assume appropriate monitoring strategies. Those interested in preventing suicide should consider utilizing this valuable resource. Despite the aforementioned inherent limitations to research, further study is warranted on this important topic for which debate is likely to persist.