Sex-specific predictors of suicidality among runaway youth.
Examined predictors of suicidality (ideation and attempts) among 348 adolescent runways (197 boys; 56% African American; M age = 16) using sex-specific models that tested the impact of the three domains of the Social Action Model: individual characteristics, interpersonal influences, and life events. Twenty-five percent of the girls and 14% of the boys had attempted suicide at least once. Male suicidality was mainly predicted by individual characteristics: identifying as gay, emotional distress, fewer conduct problems, and avoidant reasons for drug use. The interpersonal influence of suicidal friends also predicted suicidality. Variables from all three domains influenced girls: individual characteristics of lower age, lower self-esteem, and emotional distress; interpersonal influence of suicidal friends; and life events of having lived on the streets and assaults. Findings suggest some sex-specific interventions, but decreasing emotional distress and lessening the influence of suicidal friends may be useful for both boys and girls.
Leslie
Michelle Burden
MB
Department of Psychology, Yale University, USA.
Stein
Judith A
JA
Rotheram-Borus
Mary Jane
MJ
D000293:Adolescent; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005260:Female; D018453:Homeless Youth / Q000523:psychology* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D006801:Humans; D015994:Incidence; D007206:Individuality; D008016:Life Change Events; D008019:Life Style; D008297:Male; D009519:New York City / Q000453:epidemiology; D012307:Risk Factors; D012737:Sex Factors; D012932:Social Facilitation; D013406:Suicide, Attempted / Q000523:psychology* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D014505:Urban Population / Q000706:statistics & numerical data