Adolescent Dating Violence Victimization and Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors: A Systematic Review

Suicide is a leading cause of death among adolescents, highlighting the importance of identifying interpersonal experiences associated with suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STBs). Adolescent dating violence (ADV), encompassing physical, sexual, psychological, and digital victimization, represents an important interpersonal context in which suicide risk may emerge. This systematic review examined quantitative evidence on associations between ADV victimization and STBs, including suicidal ideation, planning, and attempts.

Using systematic review methods informed by the Cochrane Handbook, we reviewed quantitative studies examining ADV victimization and STBs. Thirty-one studies published between 2000 and 2025 met inclusion criteria. Most were conducted in the United States (k = 28), with additional studies from Spain, Italy, and Turkey. Studies were evaluated by ADV type, suicide-related outcome, study design, and sample characteristics.

ADV victimization was consistently associated with a higher likelihood of STBs. Evidence was more robust for suicide attempts, particularly in relation to physical, sexual, and co-occurring forms of victimization. Psychological and emotional victimization were more often associated with suicidal ideation, while fewer studies linked suicide planning to physical, sexual, and digital ADV. Digital ADV was also associated with suicidal thoughts and attempts, particularly alongside in-person abuse. Several studies documented elevated STB burden among LGBTQ+ and racially/ethnically minoritized adolescents, although subgroup patterns were not uniform. Most studies were cross-sectional and longitudinal findings were limited and mixed.

ADV victimization is consistently associated with STBs, underscoring the need for longitudinal and mechanistic research to inform integrated approaches to ADV and suicide prevention.