Adolescents who Attempt Suicide: A Retrospective Clinical Chart Review of Hospitalized Patients

173 adolescents, age 10-20 yrs, (n=104F, 59M) who had attempted suicide were identified. The 3 characteristics most often exhibited in the yr prior to the attempt were alcohol use, drug use & rebellion toward authority. Only 10% of the attempters were reported to have come from a harmonious family. Depression, impulsivity & anger were the most predominant personality characteristics. Attempts were usually precipitated by conflicts with a significant person & were accomplished by drug overdose.