Suicide in Middle Level Schools: Implications for Principals (From Adolescent Suicide, P 193-198, 1988, Robert W. Cole, Jr., ed. -- See NCJ-117025)

• NCJ Number: 117039
• Author(s): C F Toepfer
• Date Published: 1988
• Length: 6 pages
• Sale Source: Phi Delta Kappa
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: Reprinted from NASSP Bulletin, V 70, No. 487 February 1986

Annotation

Prevention of teenage suicide and dealing with that tragedy when it occurs is an increasing concern for principals of middle-level schools serving youths aged 10 to 14.

Abstract

Unfortunately, recent national reports on education have lost contact with concern for the wholeness of the developmental needs of children, middle-level students, and adolescents. Suicide among both younger and older adolescents has increased in recent years. Middle schools are particularly important in a youth's total development, because the years from 10 to 14 are when the adolescent-adult value frame is largely set. In addition, physical maturation is occurring at younger and younger ages, but it is not accompanied by emotional and social maturation. Principals can provide leadership in raising local awareness of the issue of youth suicide. Developing information networking and crisis management plans can also be helpful. Awareness of danger signs of suicide and involving school staff and outside professionals in addressing identified problems are also crucial. 12 references and 5 printed resources, together with addresses of their sources.