NCJ Number
183485
Journal
Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Volume: 39 Issue: 7 Dated: July 2000 Pages: 868-875
Date Published
July 2000
Length
8 pages
Annotation
This study compares risk factors for self-harm in hospitalized adolescents who had attempted suicide and adolescents reporting suicide attempts in a community survey.
Abstract
All suicide attempters aged 13 to 19 years admitted to medical wards (n = 91) in a region of Norway were assessed and interviewed. Risk factors were identified by comparisons with a general population sample participating in a questionnaire study in the same community (n = 1,736). Adjusted risk factors for suicide attempts in hospitalized adolescents were depression, disruptive disorders, low self-worth, infrequent support from parents or peers, parents’ excessive drinking and low socioeconomic status. For adolescents who self-reported self-harm, depression, and loneliness were significant adjusted risk factors. Low self-worth, low socioeconomic status and little support from parents or peers characterized hospitalized suicidal adolescents compared with those who were not hospitalized. Prevention efforts should target the same factors for both groups, at a population level for nonhospitalized adolescents and at an individual level for hospitalized adolescents, with a focus on depression, low self-esteem, and family communication. Tables, references