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Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors Among LGBTQ Youth: Meta-Analyses and a Systematic Review
Summary
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ) youth face higher risks of suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STB). This meta-analysis synthesizes 44 studies, revealing variability in STB correlates and significant research gaps.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Public Health
- Sociology
Background:
- Suicide is a leading cause of death for adolescents and young adults (15-24 years).
- Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ) youth experience disproportionately higher rates of suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STB).
- Understanding the factors associated with STB in LGBTQ youth is crucial for developing effective prevention and intervention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize existing research on the correlates of suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STB) among LGBTQ youth.
- To identify patterns and limitations in the current body of literature regarding LGBTQ youth suicide.
Main Methods:
- A meta-analysis was conducted, synthesizing data from 44 studies published over the past 20 years.
- Effect sizes were calculated from 234 correlation coefficients examining correlates of STB in LGBTQ youth.
- Studies were identified through searches of multiple social science databases.
Main Results:
- The analysis revealed significant variability in the correlates of STB among LGBTQ youth.
- Substantial limitations were identified in the existing literature, including a lack of novel correlates and theoretically driven designs.
- Heterogeneity in effect sizes, a focus on risk factors, and a paucity of research specifically on transgender youth were noted.
Conclusions:
- Current research on suicide correlates in LGBTQ youth shows considerable heterogeneity and limitations.
- There is a need for more theoretically and developmentally driven research, particularly focusing on transgender youth.
- Further investigation is required to address the identified gaps and improve suicide prevention efforts for LGBTQ youth.
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