A congressional view of youth suicide

Concern about adolescent suicide is pervasive among American teenagers. This article reviews the results of a national survey of adolescents about their knowledge of, and attitudes toward, youth suicide. More than 60% of teens surveyed reported knowing another teen who had attempted suicide and 6% reported having made an attempt themselves. The survey also provides information about adolescents' explanations for self-destructive behavior. Given this information, recommendations for effective preventive interventions and policy decisions are offered.