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E-ISSN : 2148-9696
Crescent Journal of
Medical and Biological Sciences
Jul 2025, Vol 12, Issue 3
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Original Article
The Sociology of Hope: Resisting Suicide Under the Decree-Law Regime in Turkey
Fatma Zehra Fidan1
1Manisa Celal Bayar University, Manis, Turkey

CJMB 2025; 12: 143-149
DOI: 10.34172/cjmb.2025.3990
Viewed : 1141 times
Downloaded : 39 times.

Keywords : Decree Law (KHK), Stigma, Social exclusion, Suicide, Social support, Content analysis
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Abstract
Objectives: Following the attempted coup in Turkey on July 15, 2016, statutory decrees (Kanun Hükmünde Kararnameler – KHK) were enacted, resulting in the dismissal of hundreds of thousands of individuals from their jobs and the loss of their social rights and reputations. These measures, which continue to affect individuals and their families, have led to widespread social exclusion, stigmatization, and economic hardship. In the field of social sciences, such practices are often associated with the concepts of "civil death" and "social death," referring to the systematic marginalization of individuals from public and social life. The combination of economic deprivation and societal exclusion has caused severe psychological distress and, in many cases, suicidal ideation. This study focuses on individuals affected by the Decree Laws (KHK) who experienced psychological breakdowns and planned suicide but ultimately refrained from carrying it out. The primary aim is to identify and understand the social and psychological factors that prevented these individuals from following through with suicide.

Methods: In-depth interviews were conducted with 11 individuals who had contemplated and planned suicide but did not act on these plans. The data were analyzed using content analysis methodology.

Results: The most prominent factor preventing suicide was the emotional bond and sense of responsibility towards family members, particularly children. Additionally, supportive social environments that fostered a sense of belonging played a crucial role in anchoring individuals to life. Awareness of personal strength, the desire for justice or retribution against those perceived as responsible for the injustice, and the sacred meaning attributed to weapons also emerged as significant deterrents to suicide.

Conclusions: The protective role of family ties and social support mechanisms highlights the importance of familial structures and social integration. The pursuit of justice and the energizing power of the desire for retribution serve as motivational forces that reorient individuals toward life. The transition from psychological collapse to personal empowerment not only supports individual well-being but also contributes to social resilience. These findings underscore the necessity of psychosocial support programs and advocate for the restoration of justice and the rule of law in the public sphere.

 

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