The life, personality, and writings of Franz Kafka are explored as a way of examining self-preserving processes in a person with chronic suicidal tendencies. Most of those who survive suicidal acts will eventually die natural deaths. Although Kafka often contemplated suicide but never attempted it, the huge volume of highly personal reflections he left behind after his death make him a worthwhile subject for study. Kafka's troubled relationship with his tyrannical, abusive father had a major impact on his development as a masochistic and depressed person; other childhood experiences also were factors. His ways of coping are presented, emphasizing the close friendship with Max Brod, his altruistic character, and his writing. Resilience is differentiated from coping; his resilience enabled him to overcome suicidal tendencies.
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