Suicidal Adolescents: Family Dynamics and the Effects of Lethality and Hopelessness

This study examines family dynamics of suicidal adolescents regarding overprotection, enmeshment, rigidity, & conflict avoidance. The relationship between family dynamics, the adolescent’s degree of hopelessness, & the lethality of the suicidal behavior are also examined. Families with suicidal adolescents & those with nonsuicidal, symptomatic adolescents are evaluated. Families were similiar in overprotection & enmeshment, but families with suicidal teens were more rigid & conflict avoidant.