Gender differences in rates and correlates of suicidal behaviour amongst child psychiatric outpatients

Childhood suicide is an increasing problem in Western society. Identification of those at risk of suicidal behaviour is of priority to identify children with consequent mental suffering, and prevent successful attempts. The study determined factors associated with suicidal ideas, attempts or threats in 5426 psychiatric outpatients aged between 8 and 17 years who attended a British teaching hospital. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed by sex on the data from the standard department questionnaire. Substance abuse, depression and disturbed relationships with adults were predictors of suicidal behaviour for both sexes. For female subjects, antisocial behaviour was also associated. In girls alone, depression had significant interaction effects with substance abuse and conduct disorder. Possible reasons for these differences are discussed.