Incidence and predictors of suicidal behaviors in a longitudinal sample of young adolescents

Author(s): Garrison, C. Z., Cuffe, S. P., Waller, J. L., Jackson, K. L., Addy, C. L.

Journal/Book: J Amer Acad Child Adolesc Psy. 1998; 37: 351 West Camden St, Baltimore, MD 21201-2436. Williams & Wilkins. 612-619.

Abstract: Objective: This analysis examines 1-year transition probabilities and baseline predictors for suicidal behaviors in young adolescents. Method: Adolescents from a two-stage, community-based longitudinal study were classified into suicidal behavior categories (attempt, plan, ideation, and none) for baseline and follow-up years. Transition probabilities for movement among categories were calculated, and polytomous logistic regression analysis was used to examine predictors of suicidal behaviors. Results: Among those with no suicidal behaviors at baseline, 1-year incidence rates were 1.3% for attempts and 1.7% each for plans and ideation. Increasing family cohesion was protective for suicide attempts (odds ratio [OR] = 0.9). Female subjects were more likely than males to report plans (OR = 8.9) and ideation (OR = 4.1). Increasing impulsivity (OR = 2.3), prior suicidal behavior (OR = 10.6), and undesirable life events (OR = 1.1) were significant predictors of plans. Conclusions: While there are a number of predictors of suicidal behaviors, the false-positive rate is high. Focusing on proximal risk factors, particularly stressors in adolescent development, may overlook the fundamental role of underlying mental disorder and familial factors-both biological and environmental. Suicide and suicidal behaviors are the result of a constellation of adverse factors requiring a range of interventions for prevention.

Note: Article McKeown RE, Univ S Carolina, Sch Publ Hlth, Dept Epidemiol & Biostat, Columbia,SC 29208 USA

Keyword(s): suicide; adolescence; community studies; epidemiology; RISK-FACTORS; PERSONALITY-DISORDER; PREVENTION PROGRAMS; IMPULSIVE VIOLENCE; LIFE EVENTS; CHILDREN; PSYCHOPATHOLOGY; IDEATION; PREVALENCE; CHILDHOOD

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