Adolescent Suicide

Abstract

The causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention of adolescent suicide are explored.

Suicide in Residential Treatment

“…Those who have committed suicide have been said to lack courage, emotional fiber, or the ability to endure physical or emotional pain. Religious doctrines, regardless of individual creeds, almost universally regard taking one's own life as interference with the plan of deity (Ray & Johnson, 1983). In many cultures, suicide has been, and still is, considered criminal.…”

“…It is vital to remember to support the person in crisis while not endorsing or supporting suicide (Ray & Johnson, 1983). Steps staff can take or avoid are included in Table 3.…”

Windows of vulnerability: Identifying critical age, gender, and racial differences predictive of risk for violent deaths in childhood and adolescence

“…However, due to marked differences in methods of classification and categorization regarding suicidal behaviors, considerable differences exist between reports regarding rates and conclusions (e.g. Likewise, differences in conclusions regarding female versus male attempts exist between studies (Holinger et al, 1985;Ray & Johnson, 1983). Conclusions regarding increases in all forms of childhood and/or adolescent suicide rates range from "geometric increases" (Messer, 1986), to shifting patterns for age or stage of life (Seiden & Freitas, 1980), and gender similarities or differences in suicide methods (Center for Disease Control, 1983).…”

“…read McGuire & Ely, 1984). Generally, the focus of cause has been directed at such variables as depression, alienation, parental loss, social skills deficits, and psychopathology (Ray & Johnson, 1983;Emery, 1983;Konopka, 1983;Peck, 1982). Likewise, differences in conclusions regarding female versus male attempts exist between studies (Holinger et al, 1985;Ray & Johnson, 1983).…”