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Published on: November 21, 2013
Prospective associations between delinquency and suicidal behaviors in a nationally representative sample
Martie P Thompson1, Ching-hua Ho, J B Kingree
1Department of Public Health Sciences, Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina 29634, USA. mpthomp@clemson.edu
Summary
Delinquency in adolescents is linked to increased suicidal behaviors, including ideation and attempts, especially in girls. Targeted interventions for delinquent youth are crucial for suicide prevention.
Area of Science:
- Adolescent Psychology
- Public Health
- Criminology
Background:
- Adolescent delinquency is a significant concern with potential links to mental health outcomes.
- Understanding the relationship between antisocial behavior and suicidal behaviors is critical for effective prevention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prospective associations between adolescent delinquency and suicidal behaviors.
- To determine if delinquency predicts suicidal ideation, attempts, and treatment for attempts over time.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health.
- Assessed delinquency in adolescents aged 12-17 years.
- Examined suicidal behaviors 1 and 7 years post-delinquency assessment.
Main Results:
- Delinquency prospectively associated with increased risk for suicidal behaviors 1 year later.
- Delinquency remained a significant predictor of suicidal ideation (1 and 7 years later) and attempts (1 year later) after controlling for other risk factors.
- Delinquency was more strongly associated with suicidal ideation in girls than in boys.
Conclusions:
- Delinquent adolescents, particularly girls, represent a high-risk group for suicidal behaviors.
- Interventions targeting delinquent youth are recommended to reduce suicidal behaviors.
- Early identification and intervention for delinquency may mitigate future suicide risk.
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