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Risk for Preadolescent Suicidal Behavior: An Ecological Model

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Abstract

The relationship between preadolescent suicidality (ideation, threats, attempts) and subsequent adolescent suicidal behavior is well documented. We tested a six domain, ecological suicide risk model in a sample of 69 preadolescent outpatients (ages 5 to 12 years). We correlated items from each domain with “Suicidality” as measured by the Pfeffer Spectrum of Suicide Potential Scale. Three domains (Child Risk Factors, Childhood Traumas, Family Stressors) had a total of 19 items that were significantly correlated with Suicidality (alpha < .05 level); one item in the fourth dimension, Social Supports, was included (alpha = .06). We show that children who demonstrate anxiety/depression, aggressive and antisocial behavior in a climate of parental hostility are at risk for suicidal behavior.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. School of Social Work, Columbia University, McVickar Hall, 622 West 113th Street, New York, NY, 10025

    Helene Jackson

  2. Boston College School of Education, USA

    Ronald L. Nuttall

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  1. Helene Jackson
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  2. Ronald L. Nuttall
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Jackson, H., Nuttall, R.L. Risk for Preadolescent Suicidal Behavior: An Ecological Model. Child and Adolescent Social Work Journal 18, 189–203 (2001). https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1011058419113

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