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Published on: November 21, 2013
Suicidal behavior in "normal" adolescents: risk and protective factors
J L Rubenstein1, T Heeren, D Housman
1Department of Child Psychiatry and Child Development, Boston University Medical School.
The American Journal of Orthopsychiatry
|January 1, 1989
Summary
This study identified key factors influencing suicidal behavior in high school students. Family cohesion and friendships can act as protective elements against life stress and depression, reducing suicide risk.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Adolescent Health
- Public Health
Background:
- Suicidal behavior is a significant concern among adolescents.
- Understanding risk and protective factors is crucial for prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine risk and protective factors associated with suicidal behavior in public high school students.
- To analyze the differential effects of various stressors from a developmental perspective.
Main Methods:
- Investigated suicidal and nonsuicidal students within public high schools.
- Assessed life stress and depression as independent risk factors.
- Examined the influence of family cohesion and friendships as protective factors.
Main Results:
- Family cohesion was found to buffer the impact of life stress on suicidal behavior.
- Friendships demonstrated an indirect protective effect.
- Differential effects of ten stress sources were analyzed, with probabilities of suicidal behavior estimated for population clusters.
Conclusions:
- Family cohesion and supportive friendships are vital protective factors against adolescent suicidal behavior.
- Identifying specific stressors and their developmental impact can inform targeted interventions.
- This research provides insights into the complex interplay of factors contributing to suicide risk in youth.
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