Suicide Prevention in Juvenile Correction and Detention Facilities

• NCJ Number: 182764
• Author(s): Lindsay M. Hayes
• Date Published: 1999
• Length: 57 pages
• Grant Number(s): 98-JB-VX-K003
• Sponsoring Agency: Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP)
• Corporate Author: Council of Juvenile Correctional Administrators
• Sale Source: NCJRS Photocopy Services; Council of Juvenile Correctional Administrators
• Publication Format: Document
• Publication Type: Report (Technical Assistance)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: Performance-Based Standards for Juvenile Correction and Detention Facilities: A Resource Guide

Annotation

This manual presents background information on suicide in juvenile corrections and detention facilities, presents the model of an ideal program, summarizes research used to develop programs, and lists existing programs and resources.

Abstract

Accurate data on juvenile suicide in detention and corrections are not available; most juvenile justice practitioners and experts believe the problem to be underreported. Risk factors for juvenile suicide in the community include identified mental disorder and drug abuse, as well as several other factors. Contagion is a factor in some youth suicides. The Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention’s 1994 report titled "Conditions of Confinement" examined the impacts of written procedures, intake screening, staff training, and close observation as suicide prevention approaches. Crucial components of a suicide prevention plan include training, intake screening/assessment, communication, appropriate housing, appropriate levels of supervision, prompt intervention following a suicide attempt, reporting, and follow-up and administrative review. Lists of resources and appended forms and background information