Suicidal ideation and self-harm behavior in a community sample of preadolescent youth: a case-control study.

Publication/Presentation Date

5-1-2012

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: Research has focused on understanding risk factors associated with suicidal ideation and self-harm behaviors in older youth, but less is known regarding these behaviors in preadolescents. We examined characteristics associated with suicidal ideation and self-harm behavior in youth aged 10-13 years.

DESIGN/METHODS: A community sample of 387 youth was enrolled in a prospective study assessing precursors of risk behaviors. Twenty-three subjects endorsing items regarding suicidal ideation or self-harm behaviors (Achenbach's Youth Self-Report) (endorsers) were matched with 23 non-endorsers. Groups were compared on problem behaviors, impulsivity, neurocognitive function, risk behaviors, and other variables.

RESULTS: Endorsers had higher levels of impulsivity, were more likely in borderline/clinical range on 5 of 8 Youth Self-Report Syndrome scales, and reported more risk taking. Endorsers and non-endorsers were similar in neurocognitive function. More non-endorsers were on stimulants, but groups were similar in parental monitoring and parental report of behavioral/emotional issues, socioeconomic status, and marital status.

CONCLUSION: In this study, preadolescent endorsers report significantly more problem behaviors than non-endorsers. However, parental monitoring and parent report of problems were similar between groups. Given these findings, we suggest that at-risk youth may be underrecognized at young ages.

Volume

50

Issue

5

First Page

524

Last Page

526

ISSN

1879-1972

Disciplines

Business Administration, Management, and Operations | Health and Medical Administration | Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods

PubMedID

22525119

Department(s)

Administration and Leadership

Document Type

Article

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