Protective factors for suicidal black females

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Sociology
• Public Health

Background:

• Suicide rates among Black females are notably low.
• Understanding protective factors against suicide is crucial for public health.
• Social support systems play a significant role in mental well-being.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the role of social support in explaining the low suicide rate among Black females.
• To examine the direct and indirect effects of social support on suicide attempts across different race/sex categories.

Main Methods:

• Utilized data from the National Institute of Mental Health's Epidemiological Catchment Area Study (1980-1985).
• Employed the LISREL (Linear Structural Relations) model to analyze relationships.
• Examined background characteristics, emotional state, and suicide attempts.

Main Results:

• Emotional and psychological support from friends and family were found to be protective against suicide attempts for Black and White males and females.
• Seeking support from friendship and familial resources showed a negative relationship with suicide attempts across all race/sex categories.
• Seeking support from professional resources was associated with an increased likelihood of suicide attempts.

Conclusions:

• Informal social support networks (friends, family) are significant protective factors against suicide.
• The association between professional help-seeking and increased suicide attempts may indicate delayed or crisis-driven utilization of services.
• Further research is needed to understand barriers to seeking professional mental health support earlier.