NCJ Number
191468
Journal
Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 46 Issue: 4 Dated: July 2001 Pages: 902-907
Editor(s)
Michael A. Peat Ph.D.
Date Published
July 2001
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This study examined completed suicides by children and young mid-adolescents living in large, culturally, and racially diverse urban areas to achieve a better understanding of child and adolescent suicide and suggested prevention measures.
Abstract
This study conducted at the officers of the Los Angeles County Department of the Coroner, examined all completed suicides by children and adolescents who died during 1996 and 1997. Forty-six suicides of individuals 16 years of age and younger who died in the county were examined. The predominant sample consisted of males, over age 14 and Hispanic. The means of death was almost an even split between firearms and hanging. The higher rate of prior suicide attempts was among females, as opposed to males. Over one-third left a suicide note, close to half were noted as depressed, and 22 percent had tested positive for alcohol or illicit drugs. In addition, less than one-quarter were in mental health treatment. In the ease of transitioning to or during adolescence, 87 percent had difficulty that included: problems at home, legal and school difficulties, and relationship losses. The findings were presented in terms of Eriksonian developmental theory. Several intervention and prevention strategies were discussed that included: the need for a strong social support system; the advocating for the absence of guns from homes and communities; and pediatricians becoming cognizant of risk factors associated with suicide during routine visits. Tables and references