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Differences between adolescent suicide attempters and depressed adolescents.
C W Kienhorst1, E J de Wilde, R F Diekstra
1Department of Paediatrics, University of Utrecht, The Netherlands.
Acta Psychiatrica Scandinavica
|March 1, 1992
Summary
Adolescent suicide attempters face difficult circumstances and negative thinking, differing from depressed peers. Suicidal behavior may be a coping mechanism, requiring targeted psychological interventions.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Psychiatry
- Adolescent Health
Background:
- Differentiating adolescent suicide attempters from nonattempters is complex.
- Affective disorders are common in attempters but do not fully explain differences from depressed adolescents.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify unique characteristics of adolescent suicide attempters compared to depressed adolescents.
- To explore the psychological dynamics and potential intervention strategies for adolescent suicide attempts.
Main Methods:
- Comparative analysis of 48 adolescent suicide attempters and 66 depressed adolescents.
- Evaluation of differentiating characteristics, circumstances, cognitive style, and depressive symptoms.
Main Results:
- Problematic circumstances (e.g., abuse, family disruption) and negative cognitive styles distinguish attempters.
- Attempters exhibit withdrawal, isolation, and hopelessness beyond typical depressive symptoms.
- Suicidal behavior appears to be a considered alternative for attempters.
Conclusions:
- Adolescent suicide attempts are linked to adverse environments and specific cognitive-affective patterns.
- Psychological interpretations of suicidal behavior dynamics are crucial.
- Intervention strategies must address these unique factors in at-risk adolescents.