Adolescent Suicide (From Adolescent Suicide, P 5-9, 1988, Robert W. Cole, Jr. ed -- See NCJ-117025)

• NCJ Number: 117025
• Author(s): G Konopka
• Date Published: 1988
• Length: 5 pages
• Sale Source: Phi Delta Kappa
• Publication Type: Issue Overview
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: Reprinted From Exceptional Children, V 49, No 5, February 1983

Annotation

This discussion of youthful suicide notes that suicide among adolescents has been recorded throughout history and emphasizes the need for adults to listen seriously to what adolescents have to say in dealing with young people who are trying to come to terms with feelings of guilt and impotence in the face of societal problems.

Abstract

The physical and emotional changes experienced by adolescents are among the sources of the pain that may lead to suicide in some cases. Societal factors may also contribute to adolescent suicide. These factors include the general doomsday attitude of adults, the high expectations placed on the young, the lack of warm friendships in many parts of our population, the inability of our culture to help people live with pain, and prejudice against racial and ethnic groups. Preventive methods against suicide include open communication, loving respect, the provision of creative outlets, the acceptance of strong emotions, and allowance for laughter and tears. Adults should also share their own pain with the young by being honest with them. 4 references.