This research sheds light on a poorly understood yet profoundly impactful issue of murder-suicide involving children and families. While statistically infrequent, historical evidence indicates their enduring nature, with Australian news reports dating back to the 1800s. Although data is not rigorously collected, recent estimates indicate an average of 3-4 events annually involving multiple victims, with catastrophic outcomes. This alarming reality necessitates immediate attention within the framework of suicide prevention.
Recognising the influential role of media in shaping public understanding of events and prompting actionable change, the research examines Australian news media portrayals of these tragedies between 2012-2019 using content and discourse analyses. The findings reveal a concerning trend, with news coverage prioritizing newsworthiness over prevention. Specifically, news reports included identifying information and personal details (names, ages, locations, occupations, and schools), often accompanied by graphic content and photos of the deceased. In addition, the murder-suicide narrative was observed to be adult-centric, silencing the voices of the most vulnerable; the children who are, tragically, the primary victims.
This informative mostly non-educative approach to reporting of events sharply contrasts with the reporting of deaths by suicide. Understanding these variations is complex. One possible reason is the absence of press guidelines governing responsible reporting of murder-suicides, in contrast to the regulated reporting of deaths by suicide. Contextual distinctions, one perceived as a public health issue and the other as a crime, may further contributes to these differences. While the literature debates the value of suicide prevention guidelines, their positive impacts are acknowledged. In light of this, the study calls for guidance in reporting murder-suicides, urging a re-evaluation of the inclusions (e.g., graphic content and methods). Reorientation of narratives, highlighting a broader societal context rather than individualism, is also likely to lead to improved public understanding of the phenomenon.
Aligned with the conference theme, this paper will discuss the study findings and implications for collective action, advocating for a shift in thinking about how murder-suicide events are portrayed. It promotes the need for broadening the contextual understanding of the phenomenon to encompass relationships particularly those that individuals have with their children who are primary victims. To foster change, suicide prevention experts, professionals, advocates and citizens are urged to unite forces, harnessing the power of collective impact. By doing so, we may proactively shape a public discourse that prioritizes prevention. Together, let us embrace 'Collective Courage,' accelerate our impact, and, above all, save lives.