NCJ Number
152708
Journal
Journal of Correctional Education Volume: 45 Issue: 3 Dated: (September 1994) Pages: 134-138
Date Published
1994
Length
5 pages
Annotation
Because little is known about gender characteristics of the suicidal behavior of adolescent offenders, this study investigated gender differences and similarities in suicide ideation, suicide attempts, and rationales offered for suicidal behavior by adolescent offenders.
Abstract
The study sample included 39 male and 45 female adolescent offenders in juvenile correctional facilities. The adolescents were court-ordered to the facilities for a variety of status and criminal offenses that ranged from ungovernability to assault. Subjects completed the Student Questionnaire which supplied self- report information on suicidal behavior. Findings indicated that female adolescent offenders thought about and attempted suicide significantly more often than male adolescent offenders. Although significant differences were observed between males and females in their stated rationales for suicidal behavior, most adolescents reported hopelessness as a primary reason for suicide. Implications of the study results for suicide interventions and education are discussed, particularly the need to improve adolescent coping abilities. 29 references and 2 tables