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Using the conceptual framework of a developmental pathway, this study links together events in the life of Sylvia Plath, beginning with her father's death when she was 8years old and ending with her suicide at age 30. Unresolved grief for her father led to a symbiotic attachment to her mother characterized by a compulsive drive for achievement and praise. After a near-fatal suicide attempt at age 20 following failure to meet perfectionistic ideals, she recompensated, transferring her dependency needs into a symbiotic marriage to an English poet she narcissistically idealized. Her suicide followed soon after the collapse of the marriage. Emphasis is placed throughout on her unwillingness to accept personal imperfections, as well as on the search for a father substitute.
"I have run too long on trust funds. I am bankrupt in that line" (S. Plath, 1982, p. 233).
In May 1958, Sylvia Plath wrote the above words in her diary with reference to her husband's faithlessness. She continued: "All stupidity and frankness on my side: what a fool one is to sincerely love . . . I made the most amusing, ironic and fatal step in trusting Ted was unlike other . . . men" (S. Plath, 1982, p. 234).
In 1958 she explicitly rejected suicide as an answer and soon regained her trust, later having two children with him. But in 1962, seeing Ted having an affair, she did not retain her trust. The marriage collapsed and within months she was dead.
Many women have felt their husbands' betrayals, but few have killed themselves. What caused Sylvia's vulnerability? Another diary excerpt from 1958 helps answer the question. "Well, start with the background to the facts-the misanthropy felt for all except Ted and myself, the faith in Ted and myself and distrust of all others" (S. Plath, 1982, p. 229).
When she killed herself at age 30, Sylvia fit several categories for which suicide odds are increased. Although former suicide attempters constitute about 5% of the population, a third of completed suicides have previously attempted suicide (Robins, 1981); this includes Sylvia. Ex-mental patients comprise a significant proportion of suicides (Hoffman & Modestin, 1987); this also includes Sylvia. Divorcees have a suicide rate several times higher than that of married women (Dublin,...