Early Indicators of Self-Destructive Behaviors in Children and Adolescents: Primary Detection by the Pediatrician (IN: Suicide in the Young, ed. by H S Sudak et al)

Pediatricians are invaluable for detecting & preventing suicide & other self-destructive behaviors. As diagnosticians they may be among the first to witness early indicators of self-destructive behaviors & as primary care clinicians they have unique opportunities to influence children & families at risk. This chapter is based on a brief survey of Nebraska pediatricians’ opinions & involvement with suicidal children. Results of the survey are reviewed & implications are discussed.