Try for Recognition: Cultural Explanation of Suicide Action in Ilam

Suicide is one of the important problems the prevalence of which has brought about a crisis in Ilam province. Numerous studies have been carried out, but have not adequately addressed the cultural causes (meaning). Hence, the main issue in the present research is what is the meaning of suicide among the people of Ilam? To achieve the response, the strong program approach in the cultural sociology of Alexander and Smith was used. The method is of a qualitative kind; it is based on the "strong program". In this research, due to the subject and the conditions, purposive sampling was used. The sample includes all individuals who have had suicide attempts (unsuccessful) in the province during the period from September to December 2014, or relatives of those who have committed suicide. Data collection techniques, included observation and interviews with either people who had committed suicide some of their relatives. The data was supplemented through interviews with hospital personnel, university professors, researchers and informant individuals, referring to articles and publications; news reports and press releases; sites and weblogs; as well as proverbs, poems, etc. The results show that in Ilam society, suicide is a symbol of the objection against the status quo and is codified as evil. There are two main narratives about suicide: fatalism and salvation. Through analyzing the symbols, codes and narratives of suicide, it is understood that suicide is thought to be a way the person is recognized.