Short communication, Note

WORD USE AND CONTENT ANALYSIS OF THE FIRST VERSES OF SIX NATIONAL ANTHEMS: A TRANSCULTURAL ASPECT OF SUICIDAL BEHAVIOUR

Viktor Voros ; Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Pecs, Pecs, Hungary
Peter Osvath ; Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Pecs, Pecs, Hungary
Orsolya Vincze ; Department of Social Psychology, University of Pecs, Pecs, Hungary
Katalin Pusztay ; Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Pecs, Pecs, Hungary
Sandor Fekete ; Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Pecs, Pecs, Hungary
Zoltan Rihmer ; Department of Clinical and Theoretical Mental Health, and Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary

Abstract

Background: Suicide is a major health concern worldwide, although suicide rates widely differ among different countries and
cultures. Transcultural studies suggest that national anthems reflect national attitudes towards self-harming behaviour as well. Our
aim was to analyse the linguistic characteristics of six national anthems, and compare these results with national suicide rates.
Methods: Word use assessment and content analysis of six national anthems were performed.
Results: In the anthems of countries with similar historical or cultural background, similar linguistic patterns were found in
word use and in content. Anthems of countries with lower suicide rates tend to contain relatively more positive contents, emotions
and intentions, while in the anthems of countries with higher suicide rates more ambivalence, denial, loss or even aggressive and
self-destructive implications were found.
Conclusion: This transcultural analysis strengthens previous data that anthems could be indicators for national attitudes toward
self-harm.

Keywords

suicide - content analysis - transcultural study - national anthems

Hrčak ID:

154781

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/154781

Publication date:

29.3.2016.

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