Norman L. Farberow — Pioneer in Suicide Prevention and Suicidology

American psychologist Norman L. Farberow (1918–2015) was a founder of modern suicidology and a co‑founder of the Los Angeles Suicide Prevention Center, influential in crisis intervention and hotline development.

Overview

Norman L. Farberow (February 12, 1918 – September 10, 2015) was an American psychologist widely regarded as one of the founders of modern suicidology. His work combined clinical practice, applied research, and program development to reduce suicide and improve crisis care. Farberow helped establish institutions and methods that shaped how communities respond to suicidal behavior.

Career and contributions

In 1958 Farberow was among the founders of the Los Angeles Suicide Prevention Center, which became a model for community-based suicide prevention and a research center for studying causes and interventions. The Los Angeles center combined crisis counseling, training for volunteers and professionals, and systematic collection of clinical data. Its practices influenced later hotlines, crisis centers, and public-health approaches to suicide prevention.

Methods and innovations

Farberow emphasized practical crisis intervention and careful analysis of cases to inform prevention. He promoted the use of trained counselors and volunteers, standardized intake and follow-up procedures, and the idea that timely human contact can interrupt suicidal crises. His approach balanced sympathy for bereaved families, attention to survivors of attempts, and accumulation of clinical evidence to guide best practices.

Legacy and influence

Farberow's work contributed to the professional recognition of suicidology as a field, expanded public awareness of suicide as a preventable problem, and helped develop techniques now common in crisis services. He published and presented widely, advised agencies and communities, and mentored clinicians and researchers who continued suicide prevention efforts internationally.

Notable facts

Farberow remained active in the field into advanced age and spoke about prevention, research, and policy.
He died on September 10, 2015 — World Suicide Prevention Day — in Los Angeles, California, a date noted by colleagues and organizations in the field.
His work at the Los Angeles center helped spur similar programs across the U.S. and abroad and informed training standards for crisis intervention and hotlines.