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Suicidal thoughts among adolescents: an intercultural approach
M Choquet1, V Kovess, N Poutignat
1Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Villejuif, France.
Adolescence
|January 1, 1993
Summary
Adolescent suicidal ideation in France and Quebec was associated with drug use, somatic complaints, low self-esteem, and family issues. Sports activities showed no link to suicidal thoughts.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Adolescent Psychology
- Public Health
Background:
- Suicidal ideation is a significant concern among adolescents.
- Understanding risk factors is crucial for effective prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and correlates of suicidal ideation in adolescents.
- To compare findings between France and the Canadian province of Quebec.
Main Methods:
- Conducted two epidemiological surveys among adolescents aged 15-18.
- Collected data on suicidal ideation, drug use, somatic complaints, self-esteem, and family relationships.
Main Results:
- Suicidal ideation was linked to tobacco, illicit drug, and psychotropic medicine use.
- Nonspecific somatic complaints (tiredness, sleep difficulties, depression, tension) correlated with suicidal ideation.
- Low self-esteem (pessimism, instability, boredom) and family relationship dissatisfaction were associated with suicidal ideation.
- No relationship was found between suicidal ideation and sports activities.
Conclusions:
- Identified key risk factors for adolescent suicidal ideation, including substance use and psychological distress.
- Findings highlight the importance of addressing mental health, family dynamics, and substance use in adolescent prevention programs.
- The lack of association with sports suggests a need for targeted interventions beyond physical activity promotion.