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Victimization by peers and adolescent suicide in three US samples
Jennifer Wyatt Kaminski1, Xiangming Fang
1Division of Violence Prevention, National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA. JKaminski@cdc.gov
The Journal of Pediatrics
|July 21, 2009
Summary
Adolescent peer victimization is strongly linked to increased suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Early identification and prevention of bullying are crucial for adolescent mental health and suicide prevention efforts.
Area of Science:
- Adolescent Psychology
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Peer victimization is a significant concern among adolescents.
- Suicidal ideation and behavior are serious public health issues in youth.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the relationship between peer victimization and suicidal ideation/behavior in US adolescents.
- To analyze data from multiple diverse adolescent cohorts.
Main Methods:
- Secondary analysis of three distinct adolescent datasets.
- Inclusion of the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health and the Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System.
- Control for demographic factors and depressive symptoms.
Main Results:
- Adolescents experiencing more frequent peer victimization reported higher rates of suicidal ideation.
- Increased odds of suicidal behavior were associated with peer victimization.
- Adjusted odds ratios for suicidal ideation and behavior ranged from 1.67 to 3.83.
Conclusions:
- Findings underscore the importance of preventing peer victimization.
- Screening for peer victimization experiences may enhance suicide risk assessment in adolescents.
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