Mourning and Burial Site Rituals in Suicides Caused by Decree Law

Abstract

Background: This study examines the differences in mourning and burial rituals between those who committed suicide due to the Decree Laws (KHK) and those who committed suicide for personal reasons. Objective: The aim of the research is to understand the effects of the political pressures imposed by the state under the KHK and to reveal the differences in mourning rituals between individuals affected by these pressures and those who died by suicide for personal reasons. In this context, KHK-related suicides are observed to be perceived by the relatives not as an individual act, but as a consequence of the state's oppressive policies. Method: In-depth interviews were conducted with thirty-four relatives of suicide victims, and the collected data was analyzed through content analysis. Findings:-Findings indicate that the relatives of those who committed suicide due to personal reasons experience stigma and social exclusion during mourning and burial rituals, whereas KHK-related suicides are met with public sympathy and solidarity. Conclusion: The study recommends expanding psychosocial support programs, increasing social awareness campaigns, and ensuring justice in state policies.

Keywords: Suicide, stigma, mourning, gravesite, decree laws, social exclusion, political injustice,