Children and Parasuicide

Parasuicide is defined as self-destructive thoughts, threats or actions. Between 10% – 30% of prepubertal psychiatric outpatients exhibit parasuicide. Incidence in adolescence rises sharply. Parasuicide is considered an impulsive act prompted by a desire to communicate displeasure to a malfunctioning family. In some cases, prepubertal depression may be involved. Conjoint family therapy is advised. Psychotropic drugs are not recommended generally for the child. (WAL)