The Utility of Emergency Room Data for Record Linkage in the Study of Adolescent Suicidal Behavior

This study attempts to test the hypothesis that exposure to violence or child abuse might be an important risk factor for adolescent suicidal behavior. It compares emergency room records of suicidal youths with those of age- & sex-matched youths who were treated for illnesses & injuries unrelated to suicidal behavior. The probands were compared to their matched subjects with respect to prior contact with the state agency involved in child protective services. (FM)