Exploratory analysis of mediators of the relationship between childhood maltreatment and suicidal behavior

Suicide is a major public health concern. One consistently cited risk factor for suicide is childhood maltreatment, which also may play a role in the transition from suicidal ideation to suicidal behavior.

The current study aimed to examine the relationship between childhood maltreatment and suicide attempts during adolescence (N = 4834; 52.1% female; 67.5% Caucasian). Data from the U.S. National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health were utilized. Forty-six theoretically-relevant risk factors were explored as potential mediators of this relationship using an exploratory mediation data analytic method.

Results demonstrated a significant childhood maltreatment - suicide attempt relationship only among females. After considering demographics and suicidal ideation, having received counseling in the previous 12 months was the most influential mediator, followed by having a friend attempt suicide in the previous 12 months.

These findings highlight potential gender differences in the relationship between childhood maltreatment and later suicide attempts, and, moreover, the importance of assessing for recent exposure to peer suicidal behavior in suicide risk assessments.