Asian/Pacific Islander adolescent sexual orientation and suicide risk in Guam.
OBJECTIVE
We examined the effects of same-sex orientation on suicide risks for Guam's Asian/Pacific Islander adolescents.


METHODS
We used a probability sample and logistic regression analysis to identify suicide risk factors.


RESULTS
Same-sex orientation was associated with a greater risk of suicide attempt, especially for boys. Adolescents who reported suffering physical abuse in the context of a romantic relationship, engaging in binge drinking, and experiencing feelings of hopelessness were at greater risk for suicidal ideation and attempts. Race/ethnicity was associated with suicide risk for both boys and girls, and patterns suggest that membership in the same racial/ethnic group decreased suicide risk for girls and increased risk of suicide for boys.


CONCLUSIONS
Gay, lesbian, and bisexual Asian/Pacific Islander adolescents in Guam deserve intervention and counseling programs to reduce suicide risk.
Pinhey
Thomas K
TK
Department of Sociology, University of Hawaii at Hilo, 96720-4091, USA. pinhey@hawaii.edu
Millman
Sara R
SR
D000293:Adolescent; D000294:Adolescent Behavior / Q000208:ethnology; D000428:Alcohol Drinking / Q000208:ethnology; D001208:Asia / Q000208:ethnology; D001294:Attitude to Health / Q000208:ethnology; D003376:Counseling; D005260:Female; D006117:Grief; D006141:Guam / Q000453:epidemiology; D006716:Homosexuality / Q000208:ethnology* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D006801:Humans; D016015:Logistic Models; D008297:Male; D008849:Micronesia / Q000208:ethnology; D008960:Models, Psychological; D009013:Morale; D020380:Needs Assessment; D010679:Philippines / Q000208:ethnology; D000297:Psychology, Adolescent / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D012307:Risk Factors; D017678:Sex Distribution; D013179:Spouse Abuse / Q000208:ethnology / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D013406:Suicide, Attempted / Q000208:ethnology* / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D044465:White People / Q000208:ethnology